How Long Does It Take to Change Engine Oil?

[McJohnny]

The replacement interval for engine oil is between 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or every six months to a year. The functions of engine oil are: 1. To separate the surfaces of relatively sliding parts and reduce wear. 2. To carry heat back to the oil tank and then dissipate it into the air, helping the radiator cool the engine. 3. To circulate carbon deposits, sludge, and wear particles from engine parts back to the oil tank, flushing away dirt generated on the working surfaces of parts through the flow of the lubricating oil. The method for changing engine oil is: 1. Use a jack to lift the vehicle. 2. Drain the old oil. 3. Remove the oil filter. 4. Install a new oil filter and refill with new oil.

[LilyLee]

I've worked in the auto shop for over a decade, and the time it takes to change oil really depends on the situation. For standard procedures like draining old oil, replacing the filter, and adding new oil, it usually takes just 15 to 20 minutes if the vehicle has no issues. But when dealing with older cars where bolts are rusted shut or filters are stuck, it requires careful handling and can extend to 30 to 45 minutes, sometimes even an hour. Many factors come into play: older cars have harder-to-access undercarriages, differences between synthetic and conventional oil types, and whether the right tools are available. I recommend car owners change their oil every six months or 5,000 kilometers to prevent engine carbon buildup and wear, saving money and hassle in the long run. Don’t delay too long—once the oil breaks down, the car loses power.

[OElliott]

As an average car owner, it usually takes me about 20 minutes to get an oil change at a repair shop, which is quite efficient. However, when I did it myself for the first time, the DIY process took much longer—preparing tools, watching video tutorials, struggling with the drain plug, and I still hadn't finished after an hour, ending up in a mess. Now that I'm experienced, I can do it in 15 minutes, provided I buy the right oil and filter, and the weather is warm. The key factor is the car model: sedans are quicker, while SUVs take longer—my neighbor's SUV takes over 30 minutes even at the dealership. I recommend booking a service to save time; don't skimp on this expense, as engine failure leading to major repairs would be far worse.

[DeRuby]

As a new driver, changing the oil was quite an ordeal. It took me half a day just to learn the steps and prepare the tools online. During the actual operation, the drain plug got stuck, making me sweat with anxiety, and it ended up taking two hours to finish. The experience taught me: going to a professional shop takes only 25 minutes and is reliable and safe. The duration depends on the vehicle's condition: newer cars can be done within 20 minutes, while older cars with rusty screws might take up to 40 minutes. I also found that regular oil changes can reduce engine carbon buildup and extend its lifespan—never cut corners to save time.