How often should I change the oil if I rarely drive my car?
2 Answers
The frequency of driving your car is not directly related to how often you should change the oil. The oil change interval should be determined based on the specific condition of your vehicle and by referring to the owner's manual. For example, if you drive a new car and use high-quality oil, you can generally change the oil every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers. However, if your car is in poor condition or operates in a harsh environment, you should shorten the oil change interval, such as changing the oil every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers. Additional information: 1. The main functions of engine oil are lubrication, cleaning, and heat dissipation. Engine oil deteriorates over time. "Conventional" oil typically begins to oxidize after about 3 months of exposure to air ("semi-synthetic" oil lasts about 6 months, and "full-synthetic" oil lasts about 9 months), reducing its effectiveness in lubricating, cleaning, and dissipating heat, which can damage car components. 2. Oil change intervals for infrequently driven cars. Time: Conventional oil: 3-4 months; Full-synthetic oil: 6-9 months. Mileage: Conventional oil: 5,000 km (4,000 km in areas with heavy traffic, sandstorms, extreme heat, or cold); Semi-synthetic oil: 7,500 km (6,000 km in areas with heavy traffic, sandstorms, extreme heat, or cold); Full-synthetic oil: 10,000 km (8,000 km in areas with heavy traffic, sandstorms, extreme heat, or cold). 3. Long-distance driving (no traffic, constant speed). Conventional oil: 5,000 km. Semi-synthetic oil: 7,500-10,000 km. Full-synthetic oil: 10,000-15,000 km.
Having driven for decades, I've learned that even rarely used cars require attention to oil changes. Engine oil exposed to air inside the engine absorbs moisture and oxidizes over time, deteriorating even when the car isn't driven. I remember last year when my car sat in the garage for six months without moving - it showed obvious shaking upon startup. A check revealed the oil had turned black and sticky. The mechanic called this sludge buildup, warning that delayed changes could lead to piston wear or even major engine repairs. Generally, oil should be changed every six months to a year, depending on type: mineral oil lasts up to six months, semi-synthetic seven to eight months, while full synthetic can go a year but shouldn't be stretched too long. Regularly check the dipstick under the hood - low levels or dark color mean it's time for a change. The small cost of maintenance beats expensive engine repairs any day. Safe driving starts with engine health, which directly impacts the vehicle's lifespan.
