Should the Car Be Warmed Up Before an Oil Change?
3 Answers
It is necessary to warm up the car before changing the oil, typically for about 5 minutes. Below are the benefits of warming up the car before an oil change: 1. Engine oil is a liquid with a certain viscosity. If the temperature is low, the viscosity will be higher, making it difficult for the oil to flow out when the oil pan drain plug is removed. 2. There may be sludge inside the engine, which will soften after warming up, allowing it to be flushed out with the old oil. 3. It will be easier to remove the oil filter after warming up the car. When changing the oil, the oil filter should also be replaced. The area around the oil filter is often covered with oil and sludge, making it difficult to remove when the engine is cold. Additional note: When changing the oil, ensure all the old oil is completely drained before adding new oil. Otherwise, the old oil may contaminate the new oil, reducing its lubrication effectiveness and performance.
With over a decade of driving experience, my oil change routine has taught me the necessity of warming up the engine. I still remember that rushed oil change where I skipped the warm-up—old oil flowed sluggishly, leaving grime behind in the engine, which later caused minor issues. Now, I always start the engine for a few minutes of driving or five minutes of idling before an oil change. The warmed oil flows freely, ensuring complete drainage of old oil and preventing impurity buildup to protect the engine. For scheduled changes, combining warm-up with oil level and filter checks keeps the car running smoothly and fuel-efficiently. When DIY-ing at home, having protective gloves and a drain pan ready is essential—post-warm-up changes are far more efficient.
From the perspective of car maintenance, warming up the engine before changing the oil is a good practice. When the oil is hot, its viscosity decreases and fluidity increases, making it easier to drain the old oil and reducing residue, which is beneficial for long-term maintenance. If the engine isn't warmed up, the cold oil won't drain completely, accelerating wear. My observation is that changing the oil when the temperature gauge shows normal levels is ideal. Additionally, choosing the right type of oil is crucial, as high-viscosity oil can be more challenging when cold. Pay attention to the oil change frequency as well; regular changes based on mileage or time can extend engine life. For safety, ensure the environment is well-ventilated to avoid burns when the engine is hot, keeping the process simple and efficient overall.
