What are the reasons for changing engine oil in a vehicle?
2 Answers
Vehicle engine oil needs to be changed to ensure its proper functioning and effective protection of the engine. The roles of engine oil are: 1. Lubrication to reduce wear - Between the engine's pistons and cylinders, as well as between the crankshaft and bearings, relative sliding causes wear. Engine oil forms a thick oil film between these sliding surfaces, separating the moving parts to minimize wear; 2. Cooling - The oil carries heat back to the oil pan where it dissipates into the air, assisting the radiator in cooling the engine; 3. Cleaning - Engine oil circulates carbon deposits, sludge, and worn metal particles from engine components back to the oil pan, flushing away contaminants through the flow of lubricant; 4. Shock absorption - When pressure rises in the engine cylinder, suddenly increasing the load on pistons, piston rings, connecting rods, and crankshaft bearings, the lubricated bearing transmission helps cushion these impact loads.
My experience driving various models has taught me the critical importance of regular oil changes. It lubricates the moving parts inside the engine, such as pistons and crankshafts, reducing friction and wear; if the oil becomes old, its lubricating effectiveness diminishes significantly, making the engine prone to overheating or even damage. Through long-term vehicle use, I've realized that oil also helps remove carbon deposits and impurities, prevents corrosion, and safeguards the engine's overall health. Neglecting timely oil changes can lead to increased fuel consumption, affecting economy, or worse, necessitate costly major repairs. I typically change the oil every 5,000 kilometers or every six months, adjusting based on road conditions; synthetic oil offers longer-lasting protection. Ensuring you check the oil level and condition during changes can provide peace of mind for long-distance drives. Regular maintenance is like giving your car a blood transfusion, extending engine life and ultimately reducing maintenance costs.