Is it necessary to change the engine oil within a year?
1 Answers
It is not mandatory to change the engine oil if it has been over a year, and you can still drive temporarily. However, it is necessary to promptly visit a qualified maintenance facility to replace the engine oil and oil filter to prevent the decline in the lubrication, cooling, sealing, and cleaning functions of the oil, which could cause engine damage. Below are specific details about the functions of engine oil: 1. Lubrication: Dry friction between metal surfaces can cause damage to the metal parts, so the lubricating effect of engine oil is needed for protection. With the lubrication of engine oil, metal parts do not come into direct contact but float on the lubricating oil. This is commonly referred to as the 'oil film bearing' effect. 2. Cleaning: After prolonged operation, the engine may inevitably shed metal burrs due to friction. If these burrs fall off, they could threaten other metal surfaces. Therefore, the flushing action of the engine oil is necessary to 'carry away' these metal burrs. 3. Cooling: The interior of the engine operates at high temperatures, with the cylinders relying on the cooling system for cooling. However, certain internal components cannot rely on the cooling system and instead depend on the circulation of engine oil to dissipate heat. 4. Rust prevention: Additionally, engine oil isolates metal surfaces from the air, ensuring that the internal metals of the engine do not oxidize or rust.
