
Gravity oil changes should be performed every 2 years or 60,000 kilometers. This is because automatic transmission fluid (ATF) and manual transmission fluid are different. ATF not only lubricates but also plays a crucial role in gear shifting. Prolonged intervals between changes can lead to poor lubrication, severe component wear, and shortened transmission lifespan. Additionally, it may cause harsh gear shifting sensations. Therefore, regular transmission fluid changes are essential, and the transmission filter should also be replaced during this service. Brake fluid, also known as hydraulic fluid, is an indispensable component of the braking system. It acts as a force-transmitting medium within the system. Since liquids are incompressible, the pressure generated by the master cylinder is directly transmitted to the wheel cylinders through the brake fluid.

When it comes to oil change intervals, I've worked in auto repair for years and believe there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Generally, for new cars using synthetic oil, manufacturer manuals recommend changing every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers or once a year. Older vehicles or those using mineral oil should change every 5,000 kilometers or six months. The key factor is your driving habits—from the cars I service daily, urban drivers stuck in traffic should shorten intervals since prolonged idling causes oil oxidation and thickening. Highway drivers with stable oil pressure can slightly extend intervals. Climate matters too—hot weather accelerates oil degradation due to higher engine temperatures. I recall a customer who forgot to change oil for 15,000 km, resulting in sludge-clogged engine repairs costing thousands. That's why I always remind people to regularly check dipsticks; change immediately if oil appears black or smells burnt—don't penny-pinch on maintenance. Just develop a habit using car apps or mileage reminders.

In our neighborhood, neighbors often chat about varying oil change frequencies. My own car had its last oil change six months ago, just over 6,000 kilometers. The manual recommends changing every 7,500 kilometers, but I use full synthetic oil for convenience and change every 6,000—afraid of oil degradation harming the engine. I mostly drive short city trips with frequent stop-and-go traffic, feeling the oil depletes faster. Each oil change costs just over 200 yuan, a small price for peace of mind. My wife’s hybrid electric car gets an oil change every 10,000 kilometers since she drives more long-distance. A reminder to newbies: don’t just guess based on forums—check the owner’s manual or have a technician inspect the oil quality for reliability. Simply put: the rule is to change when the oil gets old—don’t delay.

As an environmental advocate, I believe changing engine oil too frequently is a waste of resources. I try to extend the interval to over 10,000 kilometers, using synthetic oil to reduce waste oil emissions. Driving habits like avoiding sudden acceleration and maintaining long-distance cruising can lower oil pressure loss. Choosing recyclable oil brands is also important. Saving several oil changes per year not only reduces carbon emissions but also cuts hundreds of yuan in expenses. Don't blindly follow the outdated belief that oil must be changed every 5,000 kilometers.