
Oil maintenance refers to the need to change the engine oil after the car has traveled a certain mileage. Engine oil has six major functions for the engine: lubrication and wear reduction, cooling and temperature reduction, sealing and leak prevention, cleaning, corrosion and rust prevention, and cushioning and shock absorption. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, is hailed as the 'blood' of a car. Engine oil consists of two parts: base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of the lubricant, determining its basic properties, while the additives compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil, imparting new properties and serving as an important part of the lubricant. The viscosity of engine oil is a key indicator for evaluating its lubricating performance.

Oil change maintenance, as I often refer to it, is the regular replacement of engine oil and related care for your vehicle. Simply put, it involves draining the old engine oil, replacing it with fresh oil, and installing a new oil filter to ensure smooth lubrication inside the engine and prevent component damage caused by friction. During normal driving, the engine operates at high speeds, generating heat and wear. Over time, the old oil becomes dirty and loses its effectiveness, impacting performance. That’s why this routine maintenance is crucial—typically recommended every 5,000 to 6,000 kilometers or every six months. Having driven for many years, I can attest that neglecting it can lead to serious engine issues, such as overheating or premature failure. Nowadays, synthetic oil is more popular because it lasts longer and provides better protection than conventional oil, though it’s slightly more expensive. Still, it’s a worthwhile long-term investment. During an oil change, it’s also a good idea to check other fluids to help extend your car’s overall lifespan.

Oil change maintenance is actually the daily upkeep item I value the most, as it directly impacts the vehicle's fuel economy. Simply put, it involves replacing the old engine oil and filter to keep the engine running smoother. If not done on time, the oil will degrade and thicken, increasing engine friction and fuel consumption. In severe cases, it might even require replacing the entire engine, which is too costly to repair. I stick to servicing every 5,000 kilometers or every six months. Choosing higher-quality oil can extend the interval by a few thousand kilometers. Here's a little tip: When buying oil, check the manual to select the right viscosity—this prevents the engine from 'protesting' and saves money in the long run. It's best to go to a 4S shop or a professional garage for the job, as they have all the tools and can also check the brakes or battery, saving money and giving peace of mind.

Oil change maintenance is simply referred to as an oil change for your car. Even a novice driver like me understands a bit about it. The engine relies on oil to lubricate moving parts, and over time, the oil gets dirty and loses its protective properties. That's why it's necessary to replace the old oil with fresh oil and change the old filter at regular intervals. It's like giving the engine a bath to ensure it doesn't get "thirsty" or "seize up." I recommend that beginners keep track of the odometer reading and change the oil approximately every 5,000 kilometers, choosing between conventional or full synthetic oil as specified in the manual. Neglecting this can lead to increased engine noise or a higher risk of malfunctions. It's a simple and quick process—just visit a repair shop, and it can be done in about half an hour. Don't slack off on this.


