How often must engine oil be changed?
3 Answers
Engine oil must be changed every 8,000 kilometers or 7 to 8 months. The method for changing engine oil is as follows: 1. Lift the vehicle, remove the undercover, and place a container of about 10 liters under the oil drain plug; 2. Unscrew the oil drain plug, use an air gun to blow for two minutes at the oil filler port, tighten the oil drain plug after draining, and wipe it with a tissue to check for leaks; 3. Reinstall the undercover and lower the vehicle, then use a funnel to add oil at the oil filler port. The functions of engine oil include: lubrication, auxiliary cooling, cleaning, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion prevention, shock absorption, and wear resistance. Engine oil is categorized into mineral oil, semi-synthetic oil, and full synthetic oil.
I've been driving for many years and found that oil changes are not something to be taken lightly. Conventional mineral oil should generally be changed every 5,000 miles or 6 months, while full synthetic oil, with better anti-aging and cleaning capabilities, can last up to 7,500 or even 10,000 miles. The key is to consider personal driving habits: frequent short trips in city traffic with prolonged engine idling will degrade oil faster, requiring more frequent changes; long highway trips with less wear allow for longer intervals. Don’t forget to replace the oil filter every time—accumulated impurities can damage the engine. The manual is the most accurate reference, so don’t skimp or ignore warning lights. Carbon buildup and wear can lead to costly repairs later. Regular maintenance ensures smooth engine performance, extends vehicle lifespan, and saves money and hassle—it’s simple yet often overlooked. Checking the dipstick for dark or thickened oil is also a good habit—don’t rely solely on the car’s alerts.
From a technical perspective, oil change intervals are quite nuanced. Today's synthetic oils are far superior to mineral oils, with optimized formulations for high-temperature resistance and anti-corrosion properties, allowing for extended service life. For instance, full synthetic oils can easily last 8,000 to 10,000 miles under normal driving conditions, but specifics depend on the vehicle model and driving environment: congested urban traffic tends to acidify and thicken the oil faster, requiring shorter intervals, while highway driving poses lower risks. Oil filter lifespan must also be factored in—oil quality alone shouldn't dictate the schedule. I always inspect the oil film condition during changes; discoloration or darkening prompts immediate action. Don't blindly trust the dashboard indicator—manual checks are more reliable. Driving optimizations like avoiding short trips with cold starts reduce oil stress, protecting the engine long-term and saving on repair costs.
