Should Engine Oil Be Changed Based on Time or Mileage?
2 Answers
Engine oil can be changed based on either time or mileage, whichever comes first. The method for changing engine oil is as follows: 1. Use a jack to lift the vehicle, locate the oil drain bolt, and loosen it to drain the oil; 2. Remove the oil filter and place a container underneath; 3. Replace with a new oil filter and add new engine oil. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, is composed of base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of the lubricant, determining its fundamental properties, while the additives compensate for and improve any deficiencies in the base oil's performance. Engine oil serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption for the engine.
As someone who frequently drives long distances, I have deep feelings about the frequency of oil changes. Mileage is a key indicator because I average over 2,000 kilometers a month, and the oil gets dirty quickly with use, leading to engine wear. If I only change it based on time, there's a risk that if I haven't driven enough miles in six months, the oil may have accumulated too many impurities, affecting vehicle performance. However, I don't ignore the time factor either, especially during the hot summer when oil is prone to oxidation and degradation, even if the mileage hasn't been reached. In short, I'm used to checking the intervals recommended in the owner's manual—usually every 5,000 kilometers or six months, whichever comes first—to effectively protect engine life. Additionally, regularly checking the color and viscosity of the oil dipstick helps identify issues early.
