ChiefH

I installed my own wiring and hitch. The hitch was a Draw-Tight Class III hitch which replaced the bumper tube, which added a lot more strength to the rear of the vehicle. I wired a Curt 4-way wiring loom under my vehicle, and added a fused wire, plus a electric brake wire from the front of the Journey. I bought a 3" round magnet from Harbor Freight and attached it to a 7-way connector which rides under and in front of the bumper out of sight until needed, then I attach it to the draw-bar and connect my trailer connector. This gives me a 4-way connector if needs and a 7-way for my trailer. The hitch install was involves as I had to remove the bumper fascia, remove the bumper the bumper tube, and I disconnected the untra-sonic backup warning system from the bumper fascia. I has a slight problem with the bolt hole on the driver side that went to the frame. I had to adjust the whole in the thicker part so I could get the bolt through. I also had difficulty using my torque wench on the inner most bolts to get stated torque. I got it but is was a chore. So with this installation, my receiver is just below the bottom edge of the fascia and with a plug in it, it is almost out of sight.

So far my 2015 Journey EVIC has indicated Oil Change at 3500 miles every time. I don't mean around 3500 miles, I mean EXACTLY 3500 miles. It seems that it always occurrs early on a trip, then annoys me every time I start the engine. I read that the PCM used a "magic" algorithm to calculate when oil should be changed. I don't believe it as no matter the type of driving I do, it still comes on at 3500 miles. So mechanic what is happening? (the Owner's manual indicates the interval could be as long as 8000 miles). My old '67 VW had 3000 mile changes with straight weight oil. Untfortunately the valve clearance had to be adjusted every other oil change (about 6000 miles) I would expect a modern engine to go 5000 miles before needing an oil change. BTW, on the last trip when it came on I decided to "reset" it and put in my log book the expected odometer reading for 5000 miles. I then changed the oil at 5001 miles, reset the oil change again. I think that 5000 miles is good enough and a good time for an oil change and tire rotation.