How to Determine if Car Engine Oil Needs to Be Changed?
2 Answers
To determine if car engine oil needs to be changed, follow these methods: 1. After pulling out the oil dipstick, bring it close to your nose and smell it. If there is a strong sour odor, it indicates the oil has deteriorated; 2. Rub the extracted old oil repeatedly between your thumb and forefinger. If you feel impurities, poor viscosity, or a gritty sensation, it should be replaced promptly; 3. Hold the oil dipstick at a 45-degree angle under light and observe the oil droplets. If you can clearly see no metal particles in the droplets, the oil is in good condition; 4. Take a clean white filter paper and drop a few spots of old oil on it. After the oil seeps through, high-quality oil will leave no powder residue. The method to check engine oil is: 1. Open the car hood; 2. Pull out the oil dipstick; 3. Insert it into the engine oil.
I've been driving for over 20 years and judging when to change oil is quite simple. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, then pull it out again to carefully check the oil color: if it's still amber or light yellow, it's fine; if it's black or gray, it's aging and almost done. Feeling it is also important—dip your finger in and rub it a bit. If it feels smooth, it's still okay; if it's sticky or has a gritty texture, it's time to change it immediately. I usually check every 5,000 to 6,000 kilometers, especially after long trips when oxidation is more likely. Don't just rely on mileage—check it yourself from time to time to prevent engine noise or sudden spikes in fuel consumption. Developing this habit saves both hassle and money, since poor-quality oil can make an engine retire early.
