Does the engine oil still need maintenance when it's at 40%?
4 Answers
When the engine oil is still at 40%, maintenance is not required, and you can continue driving. The next maintenance time is usually set during the last service, and you should go for maintenance before the oil life reaches zero. Different manufacturers and vehicle models have varying maintenance items and cycles, so it's essential to follow the maintenance schedule provided with your vehicle. The purpose of car maintenance is to keep the vehicle clean, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent faults, slow down deterioration, and extend the service life. Engine oil is the lubricant used in the engine, composed of base oil and additives. It serves functions such as lubrication and wear reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, and shock absorption.
I recently dealt with a similar situation where my car showed 40% oil life remaining, so I didn't rush for maintenance. Based on past experience, the vehicle's oil monitoring system calculates the remaining percentage based on driving habits, and 40% usually means you can still drive about 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers, depending on how far and fast you usually drive. If it's for short urban commutes, like driving only a few dozen kilometers daily, you can easily hold out for a month or two. However, if you frequently drive on highways or carry heavy loads, the oil will deplete faster, and it's safer to get maintenance done earlier. In short, don't worry too much; 40% still gives you some leeway, but I recommend checking the maintenance interval in the owner's manual first. Don't wait until it's too low, or it could damage the engine.
I don't think it's necessary to service immediately when the engine oil remains at 40%, but it depends on actual driving conditions. I personally assess my vehicle's usage: if I've been driving gently lately, like slow commutes, the oil degrades slower, so I can wait until it drops to around 20% before changing; if driving is frequent or road conditions are poor, such as bumpy mountain roads, I take action earlier. The 40% mark is a buffer period where oil quality still protects the engine—no need to waste money on premature maintenance. But be warned: excessive delay carries risks, as sludge buildup affects performance. My advice is to decide based on daily habits—save where possible without harming the car.
When I first started driving, I was also confused about the oil percentage. Now I understand that 40% remaining means the oil can still be used for a considerable time, and maintenance isn't mandatory. The car's computer estimates based on mileage and engine manufacturing lifespan. 40% indicates there's a buffer, but if you've driven tens of thousands of kilometers or the oil type has aged, it's safer to change it earlier. I remember my car was at 40% once, and I waited until 30% to take action—everything turned out fine. The key is not to let the display go too low; below 10% is truly urgent. Maintaining a habit of regular checks is most important.
