How Often Should You Change the Oil After Buying a Car?
4 Answers
After purchasing a car, the oil should be changed every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers. Engine oil consists of base oil and additives, with the base oil being the main component that determines the fundamental properties of the oil. The functions of engine oil are: 1. To alleviate friction and high temperatures; 2. To reduce gas leakage and prevent external pollutants; 3. To prevent contact between water, air, acidic harmful gases, and parts; 4. To buffer the pressure rise in the engine cylinder port. Methods for selecting engine oil include: 1. The oil should be clear in appearance with a sulfur content of less than 1.0%; 2. The weight of residual carbon content should be less than 1.0%; 3. The volume of water and sediment should be less than 0.1%; 4. The weight of ash content should be less than 0.3%.
I've found that the frequency of oil changes really depends on the specific condition of the car. When I first bought my new car, I always strictly followed the owner's manual because there are big differences between models. For example, my Japanese sedan's manual recommends changing the full synthetic oil every 6 months or 7,500 kilometers, while an American SUV might shorten it to 5,000 kilometers. It depends on driving habits: I often get stuck in city traffic, and high temperatures and short trips can cause the oil to degrade faster, so I change it more frequently. The key isn't a fixed schedule but observing the car's condition; regularly check the dipstick level and color—when it turns black, it's time to act. Engine oil is crucial for engine health, as it lubricates internal components to prevent friction and overheating. Changing it early can extend the car's lifespan by 10 years without a problem. Never skimp on maintenance to save a little money.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I rely on intuition when it comes to oil changes. For new cars using synthetic oil, if the engine runs smoothly after 8,000 kilometers, I wait until the 10,000-kilometer mark. But for older cars like my decade-old Volkswagen Passat, I change every 5,000 kilometers to prevent oil burning or leaks. Experience tells me to check oil levels before long summer trips to avoid surprises, and to change more frequently in winter due to cold-start wear. I’ve done it myself a few times—saving money while understanding my car’s condition: oil quality matters, and using the wrong type can reduce efficiency and increase fuel consumption by 0.5 liters per 100 km. Saving is good, but never at the cost of safety.
When I first bought my car, I wasn't clear about the oil change interval. A friend suggested changing it roughly every six months or 5,000 kilometers, so I set a phone reminder to avoid forgetting. My hatchback uses semi-synthetic oil, and in practice, it can last up to 7,000 kilometers while still running smoothly. However, as a beginner, it's better to be cautious and change it earlier. Usually, I pop the hood to check the dipstick—as long as the oil looks clear and not cloudy, it's fine. Engine oil plays a significant role in reducing friction and preventing overheating in the engine. Neglecting it might lead to early wear and costly repairs. Remember this simple principle: don't delay regular maintenance, and you'll easily extend your car's lifespan.
