How Often Should Domestic Fully Synthetic Engine Oil Be Changed?
2 Answers
Generally, it should be changed every 10,000-12,000 kilometers or every six months. Advantages of fully synthetic engine oil: smoother cold starts; better fuel efficiency; longer oil change intervals; extends engine lifespan and reduces maintenance time. Differences between semi-synthetic and fully synthetic engine oil: Fully synthetic oil has a wider operating temperature range and a longer service life. For the same oil film requirements, semi-synthetic oil can achieve the desired performance with lower viscosity, while semi-synthetic oil requires a relatively higher viscosity compared to synthetic oil to meet the same requirements. In other words, under the same working conditions, fully synthetic oil can protect the engine with lower viscosity. Similarly, in the same working environment, fully synthetic oil lasts much longer than semi-synthetic oil, so although the initial cost is higher, when considering the reduced frequency of oil changes, it is not significantly more expensive than mineral oil.
I've noticed that the oil change interval for domestic full synthetic oils is generally around 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers. My car has been using domestic oil for several years, and when I frequently drive on highways, it easily lasts up to 12,000 kilometers without issues. However, if I'm stuck in city traffic every day with constant stop-and-go driving, which puts more load on the engine, I recommend shortening the interval to 8,000 kilometers to prevent premature oil degradation and carbon buildup. I also refer to the vehicle manual's maintenance recommendations and adjust based on my actual driving habits. If the oil color turns black or there's a strange odor, it's time to check it—don't just focus on mileage, as engine health is crucial for safety and performance. Regular oil changes don't save much money in the short term, but in the long run, they extend engine life and avoid costly major repairs.
