When Should Engine Oil Be Replaced Based on Remaining Quantity?
4 Answers
Engine oil should be replaced when the remaining quantity drops below approximately 10%. At this point, the vehicle's combination instrument will issue a prompt reminding you to change the oil promptly, and you should schedule maintenance as soon as possible based on this reminder. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves multiple functions including lubrication and wear reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, as well as shock absorption and buffering. Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary constituent of the lubricant, determining its fundamental properties, while additives compensate for and enhance the shortcomings of the base oil, imparting new characteristics and making them a crucial part of the lubricant.
I've been driving for over a decade, and when it comes to oil changes, it's definitely not about how much is left to decide whether to change it or not. You need to remember that oil changes are entirely based on how many kilometers your car has traveled or how long it's been driven. Generally, it's every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or every six months that you should change it. Even if there's only half the oil left in the tank, it doesn't mean it's so bad that it needs to be changed immediately. On the contrary, when the oil level is low, you can simply top it up with some additional oil. Use the dipstick to check, and it's best to keep it between the minimum and maximum marks. Don't wait until the oil deteriorates; accumulated impurities can damage the engine. I recommend following the owner's manual for regular maintenance, changing the oil along with the filter to extend the engine's life. Proper maintenance makes the car run smoother and saves money.
I've always been concerned about environmental issues. Take engine oil changes for example - you really can't use the remaining quantity as the standard. That's just wasteful. Oil changes should be based on the vehicle's mileage or time interval, typically every 5,000-10,000 km or every 6 months. Even if the oil level drops by half, you only need to top it up. Complete changes are preventive measures - to avoid polluting the environment with degraded oil or causing more frequent engine repairs. Checking oil level is simple: measure with the dipstick after parking when cold, keeping it between the marks without exceeding the upper limit. I make it a habit to dispose of used oil in recycling containers - this protects both the engine and reduces carbon footprint. Develop regular maintenance habits, avoid unnecessary tinkering, and be more eco-friendly.
When it comes to engine oil, changing it isn't about how much is left. You should change it after driving around 5,000 kilometers, regardless of the oil level. The performance of engine oil degrades over time. If the level is low due to leaks or oil consumption, just top it up. A complete oil change is only achieved during replacement. Check the dipstick when parked normally; as long as it's within the range, it's fine. I always follow the manual's reminders—it's safe and straightforward.
