How to Determine if Engine Oil Needs to Be Changed

[StIan]

Here are the methods to determine if the engine oil needs to be changed: 1. Check the oil quality—if the color turns black and smells sour, it needs to be replaced; 2. Use your fingers to check if the oil still has viscosity; 3. Difficulty shifting gears when starting a cold engine. The steps to change the engine oil are as follows: 1. Remove the air filter, clean it using an air pump, and reinstall it; 2. Lift the vehicle, unscrew the drain plug to release the old oil, and remove the oil filter; 3. Add approximately 3.5 liters of new oil. The functions of engine oil include: 1. Reducing friction and high temperatures; 2. Cooling and lowering temperature; 3. Cleaning and removing contaminants; 4. Dampening vibrations and shocks; 5. Preventing rust and corrosion.

[RafaelFitz]

I've been driving for over ten years and often check the engine oil myself. The simplest method is to pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, then pull it out again to check the oil level and color. If the oil is black, as thick as asphalt, or has a burnt smell, it's definitely time to change it. Normal engine oil should be brownish-yellow or light yellow and relatively clear. Additionally, if it's been more than six months or over 8,000 kilometers since the last oil change, you should change it even if it looks okay, because aged oil has poor lubricity and increases engine wear. I once ignored these signs, and the engine noise increased, fuel consumption went up, and it cost me thousands to repair—totally not worth it. Regular maintenance isn't just about mileage; it also depends on driving conditions. For example, in cities with frequent traffic jams and heavy dust, oil degrades faster and may get dirty by 5,000 kilometers. Taking a few minutes to check regularly saves both hassle and money. I recommend beginners develop the habit of checking the dipstick every time they refuel.

[CaliMarie]

As a female car owner, I don't think it's difficult to determine whether the engine oil needs to be changed, as long as you perform some simple checks regularly. First, check the oil dipstick: ensure the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks; if it's below the minimum, it's time to add more. Then observe the color and fluidity—clean oil is as clear and transparent as honey, while oil that has turned black or thickened, like old fried dough sticks, should be discarded. Give it a sniff; if there's a burnt smell, that's also a signal to change it. Additionally, cars usually have warning lights; when the oil light comes on, act promptly. I typically change the oil every six months or after driving 6,000 to 7,000 kilometers to avoid potential issues if I forget. Different types of oil affect the change interval: full synthetic oil might last longer, while mineral oil requires more frequent changes. Driving habits also play a role—highway driving causes less wear, while frequent starts and stops in city driving accelerate degradation. Ignoring these factors may shorten the engine's lifespan and increase repair costs. I usually use a mobile app to keep a maintenance log and set reminders, which is both convenient and reassuring, helping to keep my car in excellent condition.

[Terri]

I enjoy DIY car maintenance and assess engine oil condition through several intuitive tests. Check the oil dipstick sample: fresh oil appears light yellow and translucent, but darkens and turns black with use, indicating excessive contaminant buildup. Feel the oil's texture—if it's overly thick like sludge, it means reduced lubricating performance. Another method is using oil test strips or a viscometer; just drop a small amount of oil onto this inexpensive tool, wait a few minutes, and observe the diffusion pattern to determine contamination levels. If you exceed the mileage or time intervals specified in the maintenance manual (e.g., driving over 10,000 km or leaving it unused for half a year), consider changing it. Weather also plays a role—summer heat accelerates oxidation, while winter cold starts offer weaker protection. Don’t wait until engine noise worsens; prioritize regular inspections for prevention. This protects the engine and can even improve fuel efficiency.