How Many Kilometers Should a Car Run Before Changing the Oil?
2 Answers
Car oil change intervals depend on the oil grade: 1. Fully synthetic oil should be changed every 10,000 kilometers or once a year; 2. Semi-synthetic oil should be changed every 7,500 kilometers or every 7 to 8 months; 3. Mineral oil should be changed every 5,000 kilometers or every 6 months. Functions of engine oil: 1. Lubrication, ensuring smooth sliding between pistons and cylinders, main shafts and bearings, preventing part wear; 2. Assisting in cooling; 3. Cleaning carbon deposits and sludge from engine parts; 4. Sealing to prevent gas leakage and keep out contaminants; 5. Rust and corrosion prevention; 6. Shock absorption; 7. Wear resistance.
I usually refer to the car manual, that's the most reliable source since manufacturers spell everything out clearly. For regular family cars, changing oil every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers is quite common. Take my Japanese car for example - the dealership always pushes for 5,000 km changes, but with full synthetic oil, the dipstick still shows clean fluid even at 8,000 km. However, turbocharged vehicles do require more frequent changes, around 7,500 km is about right. Short-distance driving is actually harder on oil - when the engine doesn't fully warm up before reaching destination, you should change at 6,000 km. Also watch for darkened oil color or if you notice the accelerator feeling heavier while driving - these are telltale signs for an oil change. Don't just focus on mileage; don't exceed six months between changes either.
