How Often Should the Lubrication System Be Cleaned?
3 Answers
The lubrication system generally needs to be cleaned every 20,000 kilometers driven. The cleaning interval may vary depending on the type of oil used: 1. If mineral oil or semi-synthetic oil is used for an extended period, the cleaning interval should be appropriately shortened. 2. For high-quality full synthetic oil, the cleaning interval can be extended to around 25,000 kilometers. Additional Information: 1. The design of the lubrication system depends on the characteristics and operating conditions of various mechanical equipment. It typically consists of several key components such as hydraulic pumps, oil tanks, filters, cooling devices, heating devices, sealing devices, buffer devices, safety devices, and alarms. 2. The function of the lubrication system is to deliver a specified amount of clean lubricating oil to the surfaces of moving parts to achieve liquid friction, reduce frictional resistance, and minimize wear. It also cleans and cools the surfaces of the components. The lubrication system usually includes oil passages, oil pumps, oil filters, and some valves.
There is no fixed interval for cleaning the lubrication system, it mainly depends on daily driving habits. If you frequently encounter city traffic jams or take short trips, where the engine is under heavy load and accumulates more sludge, it's best to address it during every oil change, approximately every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers. For vehicles that frequently drive long distances on highways, the interval can be longer, such as every 20,000 kilometers. Don't underestimate the importance of cleaning; sludge buildup can hinder oil flow, leading to engine overheating or wear, which could result in costly repairs. Make it a habit to check the oil color—if it appears black or murky, it's time to take action. Don't wait until the engine stalls to regret it. My advice is to follow the maintenance manual and not skip this step to save a small amount of money.
The frequency of lubrication system cleaning should be determined based on the vehicle's condition. For new cars or those using synthetic oil for daily commuting, which have good cleaning capabilities, cleaning every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers may be sufficient. For older vehicles or those frequently driving in mountainous areas with heavy loads, due to the higher risk of carbon buildup, it is recommended to check if cleaning is needed every 10,000 kilometers. Pay attention to the condition of the oil filter and replace it when it gets dirty. Delayed cleaning can reduce engine lifespan and increase fuel consumption. I usually keep maintenance logs for easy tracking. Remember to keep the oil fresh and avoid using low-quality oil to reduce unnecessary burden.
