How often should engine oil be changed in a car?
2 Answers
Engine oil in a car should be changed every six months. Known as the lifeblood of the engine, the engine cannot function properly without oil. Engine oil not only lubricates but also cleans, seals, buffers, prevents rust, and dissipates heat. When the engine is running, the oil forms a protective film on the surfaces of various engine components, preventing direct contact and friction between them. It is essential to change the engine oil on time during regular vehicle use and to replace the oil filter along with the oil each time.
After driving for twenty years, I've seen too many cases of engines failing prematurely. Engine oil is something you really can't take lightly. Most family cars need an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, but it depends on what kind of oil you're using. Mineral oil needs to be changed at most every 5,000 kilometers, while full synthetic can go up to 8,000 or even 10,000. Here's a pro tip: pull out the dipstick and check. If the oil is black and has debris, or if the oil light comes on for no reason, don't care about the mileage—go change it immediately! Especially for cars stuck in city traffic every day, stop-and-go driving wears out the oil faster. Always keep an eye on it, and when changing the oil, remember to ask the mechanic to replace the filter as well. This way, your engine will last longer.
