How Often Should Passenger Car Engine Oil Be Changed?
3 Answers
Passenger car engine oil should be changed every 10,000 kilometers or once a year. The functions of engine oil are: 1. To separate the relative sliding surfaces between pistons and cylinders, as well as between main shafts and bearing bushes, thereby reducing component wear; 2. To carry heat back to the oil tank and dissipate it into the air, assisting the radiator in cooling the engine. Classification of engine oil: 1. Conventional mineral oil; 2. Semi-synthetic oil; 3. Fully synthetic oil. The method for changing engine oil is: 1. Lift the vehicle, remove the underbody cover, and place a container of approximately 10 liters beneath the oil drain plug; 2. Loosen the drain plug, use an air gun to blow for two minutes at the oil filler port, tighten the drain plug after draining, and wipe it with a tissue to check for leaks; 3. Reinstall the underbody cover, lower the vehicle, and use a funnel to add new oil through the filler port.
I've been driving my sedan for five years, mainly for commuting and weekend outings. The manual recommends changing the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 kilometers, but I believe it's better to adjust based on driving habits. If you frequently encounter city traffic jams like I do, the oil tends to turn black and thicken faster, so I change it every 5,000 kilometers. For those who often drive on highways, you can stretch it to 7,000 kilometers. Engine oil is the lubricant for your engine, and failing to change it on time increases wear and shortens engine life. Remember to replace the oil filter simultaneously. Checking oil quality is simple—just pull out the dipstick and check the color; clear oil is healthy. I check it myself every three months, saving money and ensuring peace of mind. Additionally, synthetic oil lasts longer. My car is a newer model, and the manual allows oil changes every 10,000 kilometers, but I play it safe and change it every six months. Overall, don’t overlook this small maintenance task—engine repairs can be extremely expensive if neglected.
Having played with cars for years, I'm particularly sensitive about engine oil. Oil change intervals range from 5,000 to 15,000 kilometers, depending mainly on oil quality and driving style. Mineral oil needs replacement at 5,000 km, while synthetic oil lasts longer—I can go over 10,000 km, especially with full synthetic performing steadily during high-speed driving. Don't forget to check the manual; requirements vary by model. I also consider environmental factors, changing oil earlier when frequent mountain driving raises oil temperatures. Engine oil protects engine components—my sports edition car maintains smooth acceleration and low fuel consumption with timely oil changes. I check oil level and smell quarterly; a burnt odor indicates oxidation needing attention. Frequent oil changes extend engine life—small investment, big returns.
