How often should engine oil and transmission fluid be changed?
2 Answers
Engine oil should be changed approximately every 6 months, while transmission fluid should be changed every 3 years. The method for changing engine oil is as follows: 1. Start the vehicle engine to warm it up; 2. Unscrew the oil drain bolt; 3. Remove the oil filter; 4. Apply new oil to the interface gasket of the new filter; 5. Pour the new oil into the oil pan; 6. Check for leaks under the engine and inspect the oil dipstick before starting the engine for testing. The method for changing transmission fluid is as follows: 1. Remove the drain plug at the bottom of the transmission to drain the old fluid; 2. Remove the inner and outer transmission housing; 3. Remove the transmission fluid filter; 4. Take off the oil pan gasket and clean surrounding stains; 5. Wipe the cleaned transmission fluid filter with cotton cloth; 6. Add new fluid and complete the installation.
I've been driving for almost twenty years, and changing engine oil and transmission oil depends on usage habits. Engine oil is generally replaced every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers. If you frequently encounter traffic jams or accelerate aggressively, the oil temperature rises and the oil quality deteriorates faster, so it's better to change it at 5,000 kilometers—don’t skimp on this, or engine wear could lead to major issues. Transmission oil has a longer replacement interval: manual transmissions should be changed every 50,000 to 80,000 kilometers, while automatic transmissions require replacement around 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers. I usually check the dipstick every 75,000 kilometers—if the oil turns black or has a burnt smell, it’s time for a change. High-mileage driving also affects oil lifespan, so pay extra attention to the cooling system on highways to avoid overheating and damaging components. Regular maintenance can save you from costly repairs, and I recommend using synthetic oil for better durability.
