How often should the engine oil be changed?
2 Answers
Engine oil should be changed approximately every 6 months. The functions of engine oil include: lubrication and wear reduction, cleaning and dispersion, cooling and temperature reduction, sealing and leak prevention, corrosion and rust prevention, and shock absorption. The steps to change engine oil are: 1. Start the vehicle engine to warm it up; 2. Unscrew the oil drain bolt; 3. Remove the oil filter; 4. Apply new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter; 5. Pour the new oil into the oil pan; 6. Check for leaks under the engine and test the engine using the oil dipstick. Methods for maintaining the engine include: 1. Use high-quality engine oil; 2. Use qualified coolant; 3. Regularly clean the radiator scale; 4. Periodically remove carbon deposits from the car; 5. Replace the car's three filters on time; 6. Maintain a reasonable engine speed.
I've been driving for years, and changing engine oil is quite a nuanced matter. Generally, it should be changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or around every six months, depending on your driving habits. If you frequently drive in congested city traffic where the engine is under heavy load, the oil tends to degrade faster, so it's better to change it more frequently. On the other hand, if you do a lot of highway cruising, you can extend the interval between changes. I often check the oil level myself, and if the oil color turns dark or there's an unusual smell, I get it changed immediately. Also, the vehicle manual is a treasure—reading it can help avoid unnecessary guesswork. Choosing the right oil is crucial too; synthetic oil is more durable and can last a few thousand miles longer, making it both economical and environmentally friendly. Pay attention to unusual engine noises and don't delay addressing them to prevent costly damage. Regular maintenance can extend your engine's lifespan, saving you money and hassle in the long run.
