How often should a car's engine oil be changed?

[DelVictoria]

Generally, a car's engine oil should be changed every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometers. Method for changing engine oil: When adding engine oil, ensure that the oil level is between the min and max marks on the dipstick. The oil level should not be below the min mark or above the max mark. If the oil level is below the min mark, it can lead to insufficient lubrication, increasing engine wear. If the oil level is above the max mark, it can increase resistance during engine operation, resulting in reduced power and higher fuel consumption. Always check the oil level carefully when adding oil. Precautions for changing engine oil: Regular oil changes are necessary. Do not mix different types of oil. Purchase high-quality fully synthetic oil, which should be changed every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers. Semi-synthetic oil should be changed every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers, while mineral oil should be changed around every 5,000 kilometers. Regularly clean the engine air filter and replace the oil filter. After adding oil, sludge and carbon deposits on engine parts disperse into the oil, causing it to turn black over time. Typically, the need for an oil change is determined by checking the oil's viscosity rather than just observing its color. If the oil level is too low, it can cause insufficient lubrication and lead to cylinder scoring. If there is too much oil, it can affect the vehicle's performance and increase fuel consumption.

[GenesisFitz]

How often should a regular car have its oil changed? I believe it depends on the specific situation. After driving for several years, I've found that most small cars recommend an oil change every 5,000 kilometers or every six months, which is the most basic maintenance. If you do a lot of city driving with frequent short trips, the engine tends to accumulate more dirt, so you'll need to change it more often. Dirty oil accelerates wear and tear, and over time, repairing the engine becomes costly and troublesome. I also recommend checking the dipstick—pull it out and observe the color and viscosity. A light yellow color indicates it's still good, while a deep black color means it's time for a change. Additionally, consider the type of oil: mineral oil has a shorter lifespan, while full synthetic oil can last longer. Harsh weather conditions, such as severe winters or dusty environments, can also affect the oil change interval. In short, changing the oil on time improves fuel efficiency and protects the car from premature aging.

[DelLila]

Let me talk about the frequency of changing engine oil from a modern perspective. Nowadays, many car manufacturers like Toyota and Honda suggest in their manuals that using synthetic oil allows for an oil change every 10,000 kilometers or once a year. I've used synthetic oil before, and it feels quite hassle-free, saving money and reducing maintenance frequency. However, don't overlook your driving habits: if you frequently drive long distances on highways, the oil load is lighter, and you might delay the change; but in city traffic with constant stop-and-go and more dust, the oil degrades faster, so it's better to change it every 6,000 to 8,000 kilometers. The core functions of engine oil are lubrication and heat dissipation. Delaying oil changes can increase engine friction noise and even cause overheating issues. Remember, always have the technician check the oil condition during each maintenance—it's much more cost-effective than procrastinating.

[ValentinaLee]

As a car owner, I have a fixed routine for checking engine oil condition. Generally, small cars are recommended to change oil every 5,000-7,000 kilometers, depending on usage environment. For example, when I drive in northern regions where oil viscosity increases in cold winters, I check the dipstick every three months and change it if the oil appears black or thin. Oil type is also crucial: synthetic oil has better durability, but harsh road conditions like dirt roads require more frequent changes. If oil changes are irregular, impurities accumulate quickly, causing the engine to overheat easily, and repairs could cost well over a few hundred dollars. During maintenance, I also have the shop clean the filter screen to prevent major issues. Maintaining this frequency ensures smoother car operation.