How Often Should the Automotive Lubrication System Be Cleaned?
2 Answers
Generally, it is recommended to clean the lubrication system every 15,000 to 20,000 kilometers driven. If mineral oil or semi-synthetic oil is used for an extended period, the cleaning interval should be appropriately shortened. If full synthetic oil is used long-term, the cleaning and maintenance can be extended to 20,000 to 25,000 kilometers. Below is additional information about the automotive lubrication system: 1. Composition of the Lubrication System: The lubrication system consists of an oil pump, oil filter, oil cooler, and oil strainer. Additionally, the system includes components such as the oil pressure gauge, temperature gauge, and oil pipelines. 2. Necessity: Since the engine operates under high temperature and pressure for extended periods, the resulting sludge and carbon deposits can reduce engine efficiency. Therefore, cleaning the lubrication system is highly necessary.
I drive to work every day, and cleaning the lubrication system isn't a scheduled task—it mainly depends on how you use your car and its condition. For city commuters like me, frequent traffic jams cause the engine temperature to rise, leading to sludge buildup, so I clean it roughly every 30,000 kilometers or two years. The method involves adding an engine cleaner before changing the oil, letting it run for about 10 to 15 minutes, and then proceeding with the regular oil change. If not cleaned in time, fuel consumption may increase, engine noise may grow louder, and in severe cases, internal parts could be damaged. The cleaning frequency should also consider the vehicle manual—older models or those driven long distances frequently may need it sooner. Additionally, choosing synthetic oil and regularly replacing the filter can reduce the need for cleaning, avoiding excessive cleaning that might harm the engine. In short, protecting your car requires adjusting based on actual driving habits.
