What should be paid attention to when changing engine oil?
2 Answers
When changing engine oil, you should pay attention to: 1. Choosing good engine oil can make the car more durable and more powerful. Good engine oil can not only protect the engine but also reduce the frequency of oil changes; 2. The selection of engine oil should be based on the requirements of the engine. It is unnecessary to use overly advanced engine oil on engines with lower requirements, nor should lower-grade engine oil be used on engines with higher requirements; 3. If the engine is in good condition and the seasonal temperature is low, it is advisable to use engine oil with lower viscosity as much as possible to ensure smooth oil flow; 4. In high-temperature seasons or when the engine is severely worn, using high-viscosity engine oil is beneficial for forming an oil film and reducing engine wear; 5. The oil level should be slightly below the mark on the oil dipstick, and do not overfill it.
As someone who has been driving for over a decade, I believe the key to changing oil lies in safe operation. The car must be parked on level ground with the engine off and the handbrake engaged. It's best to wait until the engine cools down before starting, as hot oil can easily burn your hands. Wear gloves and goggles to protect against oil splashes, and ensure the car is securely stabilized when using a jack for lifting—don't rush and neglect proper support points. Before loosening the oil pan drain plug, open the oil filler cap to release pressure and avoid a messy spill. Collect the old oil in a drain pan without spilling, and properly store used oil for recycling. Choose the correct oil viscosity (e.g., 5W-30) as specified in the manual, or risk damaging the engine. Finally, check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is neither too high nor too low, and inspect for leaks after starting the engine. The entire process requires attention to detail—don’t cut corners to save time or money, as it could lead to hidden risks. Protect yourself and the environment; a smooth oil change ensures peace of mind on the road. These tips are distilled from years of DIY experience—beginners should consider asking a friend for help to avoid accidents.
