How Often Should Semi-Synthetic Oil Be Changed?
2 Answers
Semi-synthetic oil should be changed every six months, with a replacement cycle of approximately 7,500 kilometers. Proper oil changes ensure that the vehicle operates within normal parameters while also delivering better performance. Semi-synthetic oil is produced using semi-synthetic base oil, which is derived from mineral oil refined through hydrocracking technology. It is a blend of mineral oil and full synthetic oil in a 4:6 ratio, making it an ideal transitional product between mineral oil and synthetic oil. The exact oil change interval may vary depending on factors such as the city, environment, and driving conditions. If the city has high levels of airborne dust, extremely low temperatures (below -20°C), or if the vehicle is frequently used for short trips (each trip under 8 kilometers), it is recommended to change the oil more frequently—every 5,000 kilometers or every nine months. Keep track of your oil change intervals and observe the driving experience after each change. If the vehicle feels smoother and quieter after an oil change, it may indicate that the previous interval was too long, and the next change should be scheduled sooner. After a few adjustments, you can determine the optimal oil change interval for your specific needs.
I used to be confused about oil change intervals too. Later, a mechanic told me that semi-synthetic oil shouldn't be delayed too long - it needs changing every 7,000-8,000 km. My old car has been running for four years, and I religiously get maintenance done around 7,500 km. If traffic congestion gets particularly bad, I even advance it to 6,000 km. You can also judge by the oil color - whenever it turns darker and thinner, it's time for a change. During the last maintenance, I found metal particles in the oil, which scared me into shortening the interval. By the way, summer heat or frequent short-distance driving can deteriorate oil fastest - it's best to check every six months, not just focus on the mileage.
