At what percentage does the engine oil require maintenance?
3 Answers
Engine oil cannot display its quantity; the percentage shown refers to the oil life, which is a comprehensive calculation based on the vehicle's preset mileage, time, and the distance and duration of driving. This percentage is adjustable, and generally, maintenance is recommended when it falls below around 10%. Normally, maintenance should be performed according to the mileage. Engine oil is a substance enhanced with additives in base oil, primarily containing anti-wear additives, detergents, dispersants, and multi-grade oil viscosity index improvers. Engine oil is used for lubricating internal combustion engines, with its main functions being to reduce friction and wear on moving parts and to remove sludge and varnish from the engine.
With over a decade of driving experience, I know that changing engine oil requires precise timing. Generally, it should be done every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or every six months, but the exact interval depends on the vehicle's manual. For example, new cars come with recommended intervals—my first car, which mostly drove in the city and accumulated more dust, needed an oil change every 6,000 kilometers. If you frequently drive on highways, you can stretch it to 8,000 kilometers. If the oil color changes from golden to dark black, the dipstick shows thickened oil, or there's an unusual odor, it's time for maintenance. Older cars with more wear and tear require more frequent changes to prevent accelerated engine damage. Don’t forget to check the oil filter and your vehicle’s environment—dusty areas may require earlier changes. Safety first—don’t wait until the car shakes or fuel consumption spikes to act. Peace of mind is better than saving a few bucks, so stick to reputable service centers for maintenance.
I often DIY check the engine oil and am quite skilled at it. Open the hood, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it. The oil level should be between L and H, and if the color appears dark or greasy, it's time for a change. Use an oil drop test paper to check the oil quality—drop a bit and observe the spread; if it turns black and thin, it indicates maintenance is needed. For short-distance driving, like daily commutes in traffic, the oil lifespan is shorter, so check every 3,000 km. For long-distance highway driving, you can extend the interval slightly. Temperature has a significant impact—oil tends to thin in summer and thicken in winter, so adjust according to the season. If the oil pressure light comes on, it's a warning; change the oil immediately without delay. Simply replacing the oil filter isn't expensive, so don't skimp on it to avoid bigger issues.
