Does a car with a production date over one year need an oil change when picked up?
4 Answers
A car with a production date over one year needs an oil change when picked up. The maintenance manual generally recommends changing the oil every six months or every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Therefore, even if the car has been sitting unused for a year, the oil should still be changed. Oil change intervals: Higher viscosity oils like 30-grade provide better engine protection and can be changed after 120,000 kilometers. However, if driving habits are poor, or if there is frequent highway driving or traffic congestion, it is advisable to change the oil earlier. Precautions for oil changes: When changing the oil, use the oil grade specified in the car's user manual and choose oil produced by reputable manufacturers. Using improper oil may lead to impurities clogging the cylinder block, affecting engine performance and reducing the car's power output.
I recently bought a stock car with a production date over a year ago, and honestly, I'm quite concerned about the engine oil condition. Engine oil can oxidize and deteriorate over time, reducing its lubricating effectiveness, which isn't good for engine startup and the break-in period of a new car. Even though the mileage is very low, accumulated impurities over time could harm the engine. I consulted a professional technician who advised that for stock cars stored for more than six months, it's best to change the oil either before or after taking delivery to ensure the vehicle's health. I went to the 4S shop right after picking up the car to get the oil changed. It cost a little, but I feel much more at ease. Regular oil quality checks are crucial—if it looks cloudy, it definitely needs to be replaced. New car maintenance is a top priority; don't take risks to save a little money.
As an experienced driver who has owned many cars, I must warn you to be extra cautious about engine oil issues with vehicles that have been in stock for over a year. Over time, the oil oxidizes and thickens, significantly reducing its lubricating properties, which can lead to increased engine wear. If the storage environment has large temperature fluctuations, moisture contamination makes the situation even worse. My advice is to prioritize an oil change immediately after taking delivery - don't hesitate. The cost is minimal, around a hundred yuan; ignoring it could lead to increased fuel consumption or even major engine repairs down the line, which would cost a fortune. Remember how new car first services emphasize timely oil changes? This is even more critical for long-stored vehicles. Every time I buy an overstocked car, the first thing I do is change the oil - it makes driving noticeably smoother and, more importantly, gives peace of mind for safety.
As a mom who often takes care of the family car, I'm very concerned about vehicle safety. If a new car's production date exceeds one year, the engine oil is definitely deteriorated—after oxidation, the lubrication worsens, and the engine makes strange sounds when starting. Over time, dust and impurities invade the oil, which is bad for the engine when driving. I recommend changing to fresh oil immediately after picking up the car to protect your beloved vehicle, extend its lifespan, and avoid the risk of breaking down on the road. Extra caution is needed if the car has been stored in a damp warehouse. Changing the oil is simple and quick—spending a little money for peace of mind, especially when there are kids in the car, safety comes first and is the most important.
