How Often Should You Change the Oil for an Older Car?
1 Answers
The oil change interval for older cars varies depending on the type of oil used, generally ranging from 8 months to 1 year. Key considerations for oil changes are as follows: First, adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule based on time and mileage. It's acceptable to perform maintenance slightly early but avoid delaying it too long; find the right balance. Second, ensure the oil level is within the marks on the dipstick—never below the minimum line or above the maximum line. The ideal level is at 3/4 of the dipstick, slightly below the maximum mark. Third, always replace the oil filter along with the oil. Fourth, use high-quality oil from reputable manufacturers; opting for cheap alternatives can severely damage the engine. Common misconceptions about adding oil include: First, the belief that oil should be changed as soon as it turns black. While darkening can indicate severe degradation, modern lubricants often contain detergents that clean piston deposits and carbon buildup, dispersing them in the oil. This naturally darkens the oil over time, but it doesn't necessarily mean the oil is no longer effective. Second, the idea that more oil is better. The oil level should always stay between the dipstick's minimum and maximum marks. Excess oil can enter the combustion chamber, leading to carbon buildup, which increases the engine's compression ratio and the risk of knocking. Red-hot carbon deposits can also cause pre-ignition and, if they enter the cylinders, accelerate wear and contaminate the oil faster. Third, the misconception that topping up oil eliminates the need for a full change. While regularly checking oil levels is good practice, merely topping up only addresses the quantity, not the declining quality of the oil. Over time, oil degrades due to contamination and oxidation, and some is consumed, reducing its volume.
