How Often Should Engine Oil Be Changed for the First Time in a New Car?
4 Answers
For a new car, it is recommended to change the engine oil within the first 2,000 kilometers. After that, perform a regular maintenance every 5,000 kilometers, during which the engine oil and oil filter must be replaced. The air filter is recommended to be replaced every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, as not changing it frequently can significantly impact the engine's lifespan and fuel consumption. A simple method to check the engine oil's shelf life is to observe whether the oil's viscosity has changed, determine if the oil's smell has faded, and check if the oil's color has altered. When observing the color change of the engine oil, pay attention to any changes in the additives within the oil. Additionally, you can use filter paper or electronic instruments to check whether the engine oil's shelf life has expired.
The first oil change for a new car depends on the specific model and usage. For my newly purchased Japanese car, the dealership recommended the first service at 5,000 kilometers or six months, explaining that metal shavings are produced during the engine break-in period. The manual states that German cars generally require an oil change at 10,000 kilometers, while American cars need it around 7,500 kilometers. I suggest getting it done earlier to be safe, especially for owners who frequently drive on highways or in poor road conditions, as new engines need timely cleaning. The first service at the dealership is usually free—just remember to bring the maintenance manual and make an appointment. Don’t delay too long, as exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended first-service interval may lead to excessive engine wear, and repair costs could end up being much higher than maintenance.
I've always taken my new car for its first service at 5,000 kilometers, and this practice hasn't changed in twenty years. Don't believe those who claim new cars can run 10,000 kilometers before maintenance - the engine is still in the break-in period during the first few thousand kilometers. Last week, I helped a neighbor check their new car that had just run 4,000 kilometers, and metal particles were clearly visible on the dipstick. There are variations between brands: domestic cars at 5,000 km, imported cars around 8,000 km, and hybrids can go longer due to lower engine operating frequency. The key is to avoid aggressive driving and keep RPMs below 4,000 during break-in. I recommend developing the habit of recording mileage at each refueling to avoid missing the first service date.
There are two scenarios for changing engine oil in a new car. For city commuter cars, it's essential to change the oil at 5,000 kilometers. My first car ended up burning oil after three years due to delayed maintenance. For vehicles frequently driven on long-distance highways, the interval can be slightly extended, but don't exceed 8,000 kilometers. Focus on three key indicators: change the oil if it turns black, check for a gasoline smell, and test its viscosity. Many modern cars come with maintenance reminder systems—don't hesitate when the light comes on. Remember to replace the oil filter during the first maintenance; changing the oil without replacing the filter is ineffective.
