How Much Oil Needs to Be Changed?
2 Answers
Car oil changes are determined by the mileage the vehicle has traveled. Below is relevant information regarding oil change intervals: 1. Full synthetic oil: If driven infrequently, change every 7-8 months; if driven extensively, change every 8,000 kilometers. 2. New car purchase: Change every 5,000 kilometers. 3. Oil change intervals vary by the car's origin: Japanese cars require changes every 5,000 kilometers or six months, while European and American cars require changes every 7,500 kilometers or six months. Below are precautions for oil changes: 1. Choose the right oil: Strictly follow the oil grade specified in the car's manual. If the same grade is unavailable, only use a higher-grade oil; never substitute with a lower-grade one. Also, ensure the oil viscosity meets requirements. 2. Draining and inspection: Fit the oil pan screw with a new gasket before tightening. Before installing the new oil filter, carefully check if the old filter's rubber seal was removed with the filter to avoid overlapping and squeezing of old and new seals, which could cause oil leaks. 3. Add the right amount of oil: Avoid overfilling or underfilling. Too much oil can cause internal power loss upon engine startup and lead to oil burning. Conversely, insufficient oil can cause friction in engine bearings and journals due to inadequate lubrication, worsening wear and potentially leading to severe accidents like bearing seizure. 4. Post-change inspection: After adding oil, start the car and let the engine run for 3-5 minutes before turning it off. Recheck the oil level with the dipstick and lift the vehicle to inspect for oil leaks around the oil pan screw or filter.
As a seasoned driver with decades of experience, I've learned hard lessons about oil changes. In my younger days, I didn't know better and waited until the oil turned black before changing it, which eventually caused engine problems and costly repairs. Now my rule is: don't judge by how much oil remains, but by intervals - change every 5,000 kilometers or six months, whichever comes first. If you mostly drive short distances, the oil degrades faster, so change it earlier. Highway driving allows slightly longer intervals. Check oil level with the dipstick (keep it at midpoint), but replacement follows fixed cycles. Synthetic oil can last up to 7,500 km, but being conservative never hurts. I recommend having professionals check the oil's color and viscosity during routine maintenance - if it's black or thin, change it immediately. Don't penny-pinch here. Remember, the engine is your car's heart. Timely oil changes prevent major failures and extend vehicle lifespan.
