How Often Should Semi-Synthetic Oil Be Changed?
2 Answers
Semi-synthetic oil should be changed every 7,500 kilometers or once a year. If the city you live in has a lot of air dust, very low temperatures (below -20 degrees Celsius), or if the car is frequently used for short trips, it is recommended to change the oil more frequently, every 5,000 kilometers or every 9 months. Semi-synthetic oil is a lubricant made from Group III base oils, which are refined from mineral oil through hydrocracking technology. Specifically, it is a blend of mineral oil and full synthetic oil in a 4:6 ratio, with some additives added. The function of engine oil is to lubricate and clean the engine, and it can be divided into three types: mineral oil, synthetic oil, and semi-synthetic oil.
I've been using semi-synthetic oil in my car for several years and found that the oil change interval really depends on specific driving conditions. The manual usually suggests 7,500 kilometers or six months, but this is just a reference value. For me, driving mostly in the city with frequent stops at traffic lights and engine start-stop cycles, the oil degrades faster, so I typically change it at around 8,000 kilometers. If you often drive on highways or in extremely hot weather where the engine is under heavy load, it's better to check the oil earlier, say at 7,000 kilometers. During my last service, the technician reminded me that the quality of the oil filter is also crucial—a poor filter can affect the oil's cleanliness. Another often-overlooked factor is that parking in a garage rather than outdoors can slightly extend the oil change interval. Delaying oil changes leads to reduced lubrication performance, accelerates carbon buildup, and significantly increases engine wear during cold starts, which will undoubtedly shorten the engine's lifespan in the long run.
