How often does a new car need an oil change?
2 Answers
New cars require an oil change every six months or after driving 5,000 kilometers. Engine oil, also known as motor oil or engine lubricant, is a substance enhanced with additives in base oil, primarily containing anti-wear additives, detergents, dispersants, and multi-grade viscosity index improvers. The main functions of engine oil are to reduce friction and wear on moving parts, remove sludge (one function of dispersants) and varnish (detergents) from the engine. It also neutralizes acids produced by fuel and lubricant oxidation (detergents), improves piston ring sealing, and cools the engine by carrying away heat from moving parts.
When I first bought my new car, I was quite confused about oil changes. After checking the owner's manual, I found that manufacturers typically recommend changing the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 6 months, depending on the vehicle model and oil type. For example, my SUV uses full synthetic oil, and the manufacturer says it can last up to 10,000 miles before needing a change. However, in real life, my driving habits have a significant impact: daily city driving in traffic jams puts a higher load on the engine, causing the oil to degrade faster. So, I usually check the oil level and color around every 6,000 miles. If not changed in time, contaminated oil can affect engine lubrication, leading to increased wear or even engine failure. I suggest paying extra attention to oil quality in the first few months of owning a new car. Driving smoothly can extend the oil change interval, saving both money and hassle. In the long run, developing a habit of regular checks is more important than blindly changing the oil—it helps extend the car's lifespan.
