How Often Should Engine Oil Be Changed?
2 Answers
How often engine oil should be changed depends on factors such as the vehicle's mileage and the type of oil used. Generally, it is recommended to change the oil every six months during regular maintenance. If semi-synthetic oil is used, it should be replaced every 7,500 kilometers. Engine oil is mainly categorized into three types: full synthetic, semi-synthetic, and mineral oil. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, plays multiple roles in the engine, including lubrication and wear reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, and shock absorption. It is often referred to as the 'blood' of a car. Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary constituent of the lubricant, determining its basic properties, while additives compensate for and improve any deficiencies in the base oil's performance, adding new characteristics. Additives are an essential part of the lubricant.
As an experienced driver for many years, I mainly consider two points when determining the oil change interval: first, the vehicle manual's recommendations, and second, the actual driving conditions. Most new cars recommend an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, but for older cars like mine, which often run short distances in the city with high engine workload, the oil tends to get dirty and degrade faster. Therefore, I prefer to change the oil every 5,000 kilometers. If the oil gets too old, its lubrication effect diminishes, increasing internal engine friction, which can lead to overheating or wear and tear—repairs can be extremely costly. I also regularly check the oil dipstick; if the color turns black or the level drops, I change it immediately. Don’t just rely on time intervals—oil consumption is faster in extreme heat or cold, so adjustments need to be flexible. Developing a habit of regular checks can save you from major troubles.
