How many kilometers should a new car be driven before changing the engine oil?
4 Answers
Here is the relevant introduction about changing engine oil for new car maintenance: 1. Generally speaking, considering the quality of domestic oil, it is more appropriate to change the engine oil at around 8,000 kilometers. 2. Changing the oil at 8,000 kilometers is not suitable for all situations. The replacement time varies depending on the quality of the oil and the road conditions. Full synthetic oil has the longest service life, and it can generally be replaced at around 10,000 kilometers. Semi-synthetic oil can be replaced at 8,000 kilometers. Ordinary mineral oil is recommended to be replaced earlier. 3. If you drive on congested roads for a long time, the working environment of the engine will be harsh, and the cleaning work of the engine oil will also increase. In this case, the oil change cycle may be shortened. When changing the engine oil, remember to replace the oil filter at the same time. A poor-quality oil filter may affect the quality of the engine oil.
When I first bought my new car, I researched oil changes. The first oil change for a new car is recommended between 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers to remove debris generated during engine break-in and prevent long-term wear. After that, the standard interval is every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, depending on the car model and the type of oil used—for example, full synthetic oil can last longer. I always refer to the owner's manual recommendations and avoid making arbitrary decisions to delay or advance the schedule, as new car owners often overlook this detail, leading to engine issues and higher repair costs. Developing a regular maintenance routine also extends the car's lifespan and allows for checks on other items like tires and brake fluid. In short, safety comes first—don’t take risks to save money; follow professional guidelines.
After years of driving, I've summarized money-saving tips: The most cost-effective first oil change for a new car is around 5,000 kilometers, with subsequent intervals determined by oil quality. Synthetic oil can last over 10,000 kilometers, saving more changes than mineral oil. Don't forget the impact of driving habits—frequent short commutes or high-load highway driving require earlier oil changes. I make it a habit to record each maintenance mileage to avoid unnecessary repeat spending. Many 4S shops offer free first maintenance services—clarifying this can save money. Don't be too stingy by delaying maintenance, as it can harm engine efficiency and waste fuel.
Research on car maintenance reveals that oil changes for new vehicles are a critical step. The first service at 1,000-5,000 km removes initial debris to ensure engine health. Subsequent intervals vary between 5,000-15,000 km, with full synthetic oils supporting extended mileage across diverse road conditions. Driving conditions like congested urban environments warrant shorter intervals to prevent overheating risks. Regular oil level checks and cleanliness maintenance optimize performance.
