How often should engine oil be changed in a car?

[AllisonDella]

The frequency of engine oil changes depends on the type of oil used in the vehicle. Generally, engine oil is divided into three categories: full synthetic, semi-synthetic, and mineral oil. 1. Full synthetic oil is typically changed every 10,000 kilometers or once a year. 2. Semi-synthetic oil is usually changed every 7,500 kilometers or every 7-8 months. 3. Mineral oil is generally changed every 5,000 kilometers or every 6 months. Here are some guidelines for selecting engine oil: 1. Choose engine oil based on the requirements of the engine. It is unnecessary to use high-grade oil in an engine with lower requirements, nor should lower-grade oil be used in an engine with higher requirements. 2. Multi-grade oil is recommended as it is economical, long-lasting, and efficient, providing better protection for the engine. Due to the characteristics of multi-grade oil, it may appear darker earlier or show lower oil pressure compared to regular oil, which is normal.

[Janet]

I've changed my engine oil at home several times, usually taking 30 to 40 minutes, but beginners might need more time. First, park the car on level ground and unscrew the drain plug to let the old oil flow out completely—this step alone takes over 10 minutes. Then replace the oil filter; if the tools are hard to find, it can delay the process, so a total time of 40 to 50 minutes is normal. I recommend preparing wrenches, new oil, and the filter in advance to speed things up once you're familiar with the process. Don’t forget to check the color of the old oil—if it's too dark, it means the oil degraded quickly. DIY saves the most money, but it's best to have an experienced person guide you the first time to avoid mistakes. After finishing, test-drive the car for a few minutes to confirm there are no leaks. Regular maintenance is crucial—I change mine every 5,000 kilometers.

[MacEmery]

Last time I went to the 4S shop for an oil change, it only took 15 minutes. The service started as soon as my car was driven in, and the technician worked super fast. However, waiting in line might take half an hour, so I recommend making an appointment in advance to save time. The synthetic oil used performs better and lasts longer. With the updated car models, service efficiency has improved, and the oil filter location is designed to be more accessible. However, the staff reminded me that there might be a few minutes' delay in winter or during rain/snow for safety reasons. They also provided free checks for tires and brake fluid, keeping the total time within an hour. I don't drive much, so I change oil less frequently—just follow the manual. In short, professional shops offer peace of mind; don't cut corners by doing it yourself incorrectly.

[StCorey]

An oil change usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and you can go to a quick repair shop or a car beauty shop near your home. I didn't do it myself, but I've watched the mechanics operate: first, lift the car to drain the old oil, replace the filter, then add new oil and test run. Different car models may vary, with SUVs taking slightly more time. I often remind my friends to also check the engine condition or tire pressure. Regular oil changes can protect the engine and extend the car's lifespan. I use semi-synthetic oil, which is moderately priced and works well. Remember to bring the original manual just in case.