How often should I change the oil if I rarely drive my car?

[TravisAnn]

If you rarely drive your car, change the oil every 5,000 kilometers or every three months. Engine oil, motor oil, or engine lubricant is a substance enhanced with additives in base oil, mainly containing anti-wear additives, detergents, dispersants, and multi-grade oil viscosity index improvers. Engine oil is used for lubricating internal combustion engines. The main functions of engine oil are to reduce friction and wear on moving parts, remove sludge (one of the functions of dispersants) and varnish (detergents) from the engine, neutralize acids produced from fuel and lubricant oxidation (detergents), improve piston ring sealing, and cool the engine by carrying away heat from moving parts.

[VonBriella]

Even if you drive your car very little, don’t forget to check the oil change interval based on time. From my experience, it’s best to change the oil every 6 months when the car is idle. Why? Engine oil can oxidize and deteriorate over time, absorbing moisture from the environment, which reduces its lubricating effectiveness. Once, my car sat unused for over half a year, and the oil thickened. When I started the engine, it made loud noises, and later inspection revealed increased wear. The mechanic advised checking the manual—most manufacturers recommend an annual oil change, but for cars driven infrequently, shortening it to 6 months is safer. By the way, before long-term parking, drive the car for a few minutes to warm up the engine, as this can slow down oil degradation. An oil change costs just a few dozen dollars, much cheaper than engine repairs. Remember to check the dipstick regularly—if the oil appears dark or thin, address it early. Developing this habit ensures your car stays reliable and lasts longer, even with minimal use.

[AdrielRose]

I don't drive much, but I insist on changing the engine oil every 12 months. Oil deteriorates when left in the engine for too long, especially as it absorbs moisture and acidic components, which affects its protective properties. Vehicles driven less tend to accumulate more impurities, potentially leading to malfunctions. When changing the oil, I opt for synthetic oil due to its better durability, but I never exceed one year between changes. I regularly check the oil by popping the hood to inspect its color; if it appears cloudy or has a burnt smell, I change it immediately. Additionally, I recommend pairing oil changes with comprehensive maintenance, such as checking brake fluid and coolant at the same time. Cars driven less may experience unstable oil pressure, so regular changes help maintain a healthy lubrication system. Setting phone reminders to check mid-year and year-end is a simple yet effective way to avoid forgetting and prevent major issues.

[DelAndres]

Even if you drive your car infrequently, don't delay changing the oil. Replace it approximately every 10 months. Oil deteriorates due to oxidation, and while infrequent driving slows the decline in oil quality, prolonged periods still pose risks. I set a reminder, such as at the beginning of the year or season, to ensure timely maintenance. When changing the oil, also check the oil level to prevent leaks or evaporation losses. For cars driven less, choosing a full synthetic oil type can extend the interval slightly longer, offering good value for the cost. Remember, don't just focus on mileage—act when the time comes, and your engine will run smoother.