How Many Kilometers Should You Drive Before Changing Engine Oil?
2 Answers
The specific interval depends on the type of engine oil used in the vehicle. Engine oil is categorized into three types: full synthetic, semi-synthetic, and mineral oil. Full synthetic oil should be changed every 10,000 kilometers or once a year. Semi-synthetic oil should be changed every 7,500 kilometers or every 7-8 months. Mineral oil should be changed every 5,000 kilometers or every 6 months. Below are the functions of engine oil: 1. Lubrication: It forms an oil film between the piston and cylinder wall, with sufficient thickness to separate sliding parts and reduce wear. 2. Auxiliary cooling: Due to its lower specific heat value, engine oil can assist the "water" outside the engine casing in dissipating heat to some extent. 3. Sealing and leak prevention: Engine oil forms a seal between the piston rings and piston, reducing gas leakage and preventing external contaminants from entering. 4. Rust and corrosion prevention: Lubricating oil adheres to part surfaces, preventing contact with water, air, acidic substances, and harmful gases. 5. Shock absorption: When cylinder pressure rises sharply, the piston, piston skirt, connecting rod, and crankshaft bearings bear heavy loads, and the lubricated bearings help cushion the impact. 6. Wear reduction: Lubricants reduce wear caused by abrasive particles, surface fatigue, and adhesive wear between friction surfaces. 7. Cleaning: High-quality engine oil carries carbon deposits, sludge, and worn metal particles back to the oil pan through circulation, washing away contaminants from part surfaces via oil flow.
I've been driving for years, and there's no fixed rule for oil changes. Most vehicles recommend changing every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, but it depends on the oil you use. Synthetic oil lasts longer and can go up to 15,000 kilometers if you do a lot of highway driving; mineral oil requires more frequent changes. For city driving with heavy traffic or short trips, it's better to change around 8,000 kilometers due to higher wear. Don’t just focus on the odometer—regularly check the oil color and level. If it’s black or low, act fast. I once had engine issues from degraded oil in my old car, and repairs were expensive and troublesome. Making it a habit to check the dipstick monthly can prevent major problems. For older cars or frequent rough-road driving, shorten the interval further. Always refer to your owner’s manual—manufacturer recommendations are the most reliable, as different models vary significantly.
