How many kilometers should a private car change its oil?
4 Answers
Generally, mineral oil must be changed every 5,000 kilometers, while fully synthetic oil can last up to 10,000 kilometers before needing a change. This refers to the type of oil. Another factor is usage time; typically, oil should be changed every six months. If the car is driven less frequently, the oil change interval can be extended slightly. The functions of engine oil are as follows: 1. Lubrication: The primary role of engine oil is to lubricate the engine's pistons, bearings, and other components, providing protection. 2. Sealing: After the engine is coated with oil, it helps seal during the "power stroke," preventing high-temperature, high-pressure gases in the combustion chamber from leaking into the crankcase through gaps. 3. Heat dissipation: When the engine operates at high speeds, various components generate heat due to friction. This heat is carried away by the circulating oil to the oil cooler and dissipated into the air. 4. Rust prevention: Besides lubrication, engine oil effectively prevents metal parts from rusting and corroding. 5. Cleaning: Impurities and metal wear particles produced during engine operation are filtered out by the oil filter, keeping the lubrication system clean.
I've been driving a private car for many years, and the oil change interval mainly depends on your driving habits and the type of oil used. Generally speaking, changing it every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers is a safe bet. If you do a lot of short-distance city driving, it's recommended to change every 5,000-7,000 kilometers because traffic congestion and frequent starts and stops accelerate oil degradation. I use fully synthetic oil, which can last up to around 10,000 kilometers, saving money while protecting the engine. Remember to refer to your vehicle's manual, as different models have different requirements. Regularly check the oil dipstick—if the oil turns black or has impurities, change it immediately. Don't skimp or delay to save money or time, as it will accelerate engine wear and cost more to repair later. I make it a habit to check every six months and change the oil even if the mileage isn't reached, because oil degrades over time, affecting its lubrication performance.
From the perspective of engine oil performance, the oil change interval for private cars depends on the oil formulation. Fully synthetic oil can withstand higher temperatures and pressures, making a change at around 10,000 kilometers appropriate; semi-synthetic oil is best changed at 7,000-8,000 kilometers; while mineral oil should be changed at 5,000 kilometers. Additionally, driving conditions have a significant impact—frequent short trips or driving in high temperatures can accelerate oil breakdown. I recommend following the manufacturer's suggestions in the vehicle manual and checking the oil filter during each maintenance service, as it filters out impurities and extends oil life. Neglecting the oil change interval can lead to decreased oil viscosity, increasing the risk of engine wear. In mild cases, it reduces fuel efficiency; in severe cases, it can cause component seizure, requiring major repairs.
Private car oil change frequency should be carefully calculated to save costs. Typically, changing full synthetic oil every 8,000 kilometers is economical, balancing maintenance expenses and engine protection. Those who frequently drive short distances can reduce it to 6,000 kilometers to prevent oil contamination buildup; those who drive more on highways can extend it to 10,000 kilometers to save costs. I observe the oil condition to determine when to change—if the oil is thin and transparent, it can still be used; if it's thick and discolored, it's time to change. Don't just focus on mileage; change it every six months to avoid long-term parking aging and wasting money.
