How to Check if Engine Oil Needs to Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Methods to check if engine oil needs to be replaced are: 1. Inspect the oil quality—if the color turns black and smells acidic, the oil needs to be replaced; 2. Use your fingers to check if the oil still has viscosity; 3. Difficulty in shifting gears when starting a cold engine. The steps to replace engine oil are: 1. Remove the air filter, clean it with an air pump, and reinstall it; 2. Lift the vehicle, unscrew the drain plug to release the oil, and remove the oil filter; 3. Add approximately 3.5 liters of engine oil. The functions of engine oil include: 1. Reducing friction and high temperatures; 2. Cooling and lowering temperature; 3. Cleaning and purifying; 4. Damping and cushioning; 5. Preventing rust and corrosion.
I usually check whether the engine oil needs to be changed from several aspects. First, I look at the mileage. The cars I drive generally require an oil change every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers, depending on the type of oil used. Mineral oil needs to be changed sooner, while synthetic oil can last longer. Second, I check the dipstick. I prefer to pull it out when the engine is cold, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and then pull it out again to check. The oil level should be between the upper and lower marks. If it's below the lower mark, or if the oil appears black and thick with metal particles mixed in, it's time for an immediate change. Third, I pay attention to the engine's performance. If I notice a lack of power, increased noise, or unexplained higher fuel consumption, these could be signs of aging oil. Of course, the safest approach is regular maintenance. I keep track of the last oil change and proactively get it checked every six months or so. Don't wait until the car has problems to act—engine repairs can be quite expensive.
