How Often Should Fully Synthetic Oil Be Changed?
3 Answers
Fully synthetic oil is generally recommended to be changed every year or approximately every 12,000 kilometers, though the exact interval should be determined based on the vehicle's condition. Here are the specific details about fully synthetic oil: Advantages: Fully synthetic oil has a stable molecular structure with uniform molecule sizes, offering excellent lubrication and oxidation resistance. Replacement Interval: Due to poor road conditions in China, such as frequent traffic jams and stop-and-go driving, the oil degrades faster, shortening its service life. Therefore, the replacement interval for fully synthetic oil in China is relatively shorter compared to other countries, typically around 12,000 kilometers.
Last time during the maintenance, the technician also mentioned this to me. Fully synthetic oil is indeed much more durable than mineral oil. Generally speaking, it's fine to change it every 10,000 kilometers or once a year, but don't push it to the absolute limit. My SUV now gets an oil change at around 8,000 kilometers, mainly because it's stuck in city traffic every day, with the engine constantly running at low RPM, and gasoline tends to mix into the oil. On the other hand, if you frequently drive on highways or long distances, you can extend the interval by a few hundred kilometers. The key is to develop the habit of regularly checking the dipstick to observe changes in the oil's color and viscosity. Remember to always use the oil type certified by the vehicle manufacturer, as requirements can vary significantly between different cars.
When I first bought a car, I also blindly believed in changing oil every 15,000 kilometers. Later, an experienced mechanic enlightened me. The lifespan of full synthetic oil depends on actual usage conditions. For example, in humid southern regions or dusty northern areas, it's recommended to change oil every 8,000-10,000 kilometers. I've personally tested this with two family cars: the Passat used for daily short-distance school runs showed blackened and thinned oil at 9,000 km; while our worksite pickup truck displayed 12,000 km on the odometer, but oil analyzer showed all parameters still within safe limits. By the way, modified engines require shorter intervals - a friend who remapped his ECU didn't change oil promptly and ended up with camshaft damage.
