How Much Engine Oil Should Be Added During Car Maintenance?
2 Answers
During car maintenance, approximately 4 liters of engine oil should be added. The functions of engine oil are: 1. To alleviate friction and high temperatures; 2. To reduce gas leakage and prevent external pollutants; 3. To prevent contact between water, air, acidic harmful gases, and parts; 4. To buffer the pressure rise at the engine cylinder port; 5. To flush away dirt generated on the working surfaces of parts. The characteristics indicating the need for oil change are: 1. Check the viscosity of the oil—if there is no viscosity, the oil needs to be changed; 2. The oil color turns black; 3. Excessive black particles, metal shavings, or carbon deposits in the oil; 4. The oil smells abnormal. The method for changing engine oil is: 1. Lift the car, remove the protective plate, and place a container of about 10 liters under the oil drain screw; 2. Unscrew the oil drain screw, use an air gun to blow into the oil filler port for two minutes, then tighten the oil drain screw after draining and wipe it with a tissue to check for leaks; 3. Reinstall the protective plate and lower the car, then use a funnel to add oil into the filler port.
I've been maintaining my car for over a decade, and adding engine oil requires moderation. For general household cars, the amount depends on the engine displacement—for example, a 1.6L car typically needs around 4 liters, but always check the owner's manual for specifics. When adding oil, pour in most of it first, then start the engine and let it run for two minutes to circulate the oil. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and then check the dipstick—the oil level should be between the min and max marks for optimal performance. Overfilling can cause foaming and leaks, leading to uneven lubrication and engine damage, while insufficient oil increases friction, raises fuel consumption, and causes overheating. Once, I saw a neighbor pour in a full 5-liter container, resulting in abnormal engine vibrations and unnecessary repairs costing hundreds. Seasonal temperature changes slightly affect oil viscosity, but the quantity remains the same—I recommend synthetic oil for better durability. Check the dipstick monthly, and follow the manual's oil change interval of 5,000–10,000 km. Don’t cut corners to save small amounts, only to face bigger issues later. Safe driving starts with attention to detail.
