
Engine oil should be changed when it remains at 10% to 30%. The functions of engine oil are: lubrication and anti-wear, auxiliary cooling, cleaning, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion prevention, and shock absorption. Classification of engine oil: 1. Conventional mineral oil; 2. Semi-synthetic oil; 3. Full synthetic oil. The method for changing engine oil is: 1. Lift the car, remove the protective plate, and place a container of about 10 liters under the oil drain screw; 2. Unscrew the oil drain screw, use an air gun to blow for two minutes at the oil filler port, tighten the oil drain screw after draining, and wipe it with a tissue to check for leaks; 3. Reinstall the protective plate and lower the car, then use a funnel to add oil at the oil filler port.

I drive a equipped with a smart oil monitoring system, which displays a remaining percentage that gradually decreases from 100%. Typically, when it drops to between 15% and 10%, I need to prepare for an oil change. Never wait until it hits 0%, as the oil's lubricating ability deteriorates, increasing the risk of engine wear or failure. The percentage is calculated based on driving habits: short trips in traffic or frequent acceleration will cause it to drop faster, while steady highway driving slows the decline. However, this is just an estimate and shouldn’t be fully relied upon. I also manually check the dipstick every month to ensure the oil level is within the normal range and that the oil isn’t too dark or thin. Synthetic oil lasts longer, but it’s still crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations—safety first, to avoid minor issues turning into major repairs.

We old-school car owners don't deal with percentages or fancy tech. I strictly follow the manual: change oil every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first. Regularly check the dipstick when engine's cold—wipe, reinsert, oil level should be between marks with light color. For frequent short trips or dusty conditions, I change oil earlier as it degrades faster. Neglect leads to louder engine noise or higher fuel consumption—repairs cost thousands, so preventive pays off. Better build habits than scramble last-minute.

For frequent long-distance driving, I always keep an eye on the engine oil condition. If the percentage system shows less than 20% remaining, it's time to pay attention, but don't rigidly wait for the number to drop—aggressive driving or heavy loads can accelerate deterioration. I trust practical observation more: if the oil temperature rises significantly after turning on the AC or the car starts shaking frequently, it's time for a check. Timely oil changes protect the engine, extend its lifespan, and save on repair costs. To keep it simple, combining dashboard alerts provides extra peace of mind.

For safety reasons, I never solely on percentage readings. Oil degradation affects engine performance, and low remaining levels can cause abnormal noises or oil burning. I set a 15% warning threshold and take timely action to prevent major issues. Since my family depends on this vehicle, I prioritize regular maintenance and manually check the oil's color and quality.

I've experienced oil issues several times. The percentage is just an auxiliary indicator; it's safest to change when it drops to 10%. Don't blindly trust it – manual dipstick checks are more reliable. Driving style has a significant impact: frequent changes are needed for city traffic congestion. Synthetic oil lasts slightly longer, but comprehensive judgment is required. Safety and efficiency are key.


