Is it okay to change engine oil once a year?
2 Answers
Whether engine oil can be changed once a year depends on two conditions: first, what type of oil is being used, and second, how many kilometers the vehicle has traveled in a year. If fully synthetic oil is used and the mileage is around 10,000 kilometers, it can be changed once a year; otherwise, it needs to be replaced earlier. Below are the three types of engine oil and their replacement conditions: 1. Fully synthetic oil: generally replaced every 10,000 kilometers or once a year. 2. Semi-synthetic oil: generally replaced every 7,500 kilometers or every 7-8 months. 3. Mineral oil: generally replaced every 5,000 kilometers or every 6 months.
To be honest, changing engine oil once a year isn't always sufficient. It took me several years of driving to understand this. First, it depends on how much you use your car. If you drive daily, especially on highways, the mileage adds up quickly, and changing oil once a year might be too infrequent. Engine oil deteriorates, absorbing moisture and contaminants over time, reducing its lubricating effectiveness and increasing the risk of engine wear or overheating. Even full synthetic oil has a shelf life of about a year, but this can vary based on parking conditions—humid or dusty environments accelerate oil degradation. I recommend following your vehicle's manual or checking the oil every 5,000 km. If the oil appears dark, replace it promptly. Don't skimp on maintenance to save money, as neglecting it could lead to higher repair costs later.
