How to Check if Car Engine Oil Needs Replacement
2 Answers
To determine whether your car's engine oil needs to be changed, you can use methods such as color identification, finger rubbing, light inspection, and odor detection. The light inspection method involves removing the dipstick under light, slightly lifting it, and observing the oil droplets. If you can clearly see no metal shavings in the oil droplets, it indicates that the oil does not need to be replaced for now. However, if there are many metal shavings in the oil droplets, it's time for a change. The frequency of oil changes varies depending on the type of oil used. Mineral oil should be replaced approximately every 5,000 kilometers, semi-synthetic oil around every 7,500 kilometers, and full-synthetic oil about every 10,000 kilometers. If it's the car's first maintenance, it is advisable to change the oil a bit earlier.
To check if my car's engine oil needs changing, the first step is to park the car on level ground and wait for the engine to cool down for a few minutes before proceeding. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, then pull it out again to check if the oil level is between the marked lines; a low level might indicate an oil leak. Then observe the color: fresh oil should be light yellow or amber, but if it turns black, thick, or contains metal particles, it means the oil has degraded and needs changing. Feel the texture—if it's too sticky or has a gritty feel, that's not good. I usually monitor mileage and time: generally, oil should be changed every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or every six months, depending on the manual's recommendations. I also use oil test strips for a drip test—if the oil spreads unevenly, it's a sign of deterioration. Don’t forget to listen for unusual noises after starting the engine; if there’s knocking or a burning oil smell, it could indicate an oil issue. Regular checks are key to preventing engine wear, so I make it a habit to inspect monthly—it saves money and gives peace of mind.
