When Should I Change the Oil for My New Car?
3 Answers
For a newly purchased car, the oil should be changed at around 5,000 kilometers. The method for changing the oil is as follows: 1. Use a jack to lift the vehicle, locate the oil drain bolt, and loosen it to drain the oil; 2. After removing the oil filter, place a container underneath it; 3. Replace with a new oil filter and add new oil. The functions of engine oil include: 1. Reducing friction and high temperatures; 2. Cooling and lowering temperature; 3. Cleaning and purifying; 4. Damping and cushioning; 5. Preventing rust and corrosion. Engine oil, also known as motor lubricant, is composed of 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 any deficiencies in the base oil's performance.
When I first bought my new car, I was also quite confused about when to change the oil. My personal experience: in the first week, I flipped through the user manual, which mentioned that new cars have a break-in period where friction between new engine parts can produce small debris. The first oil change is usually recommended at 3,000 kilometers or within 3 months. I obediently went to the 4S shop at 3,500 kilometers for the first oil change, and it worked out great—now, after two years of driving, there are no issues. The specific oil change interval depends on the manual and the car model; modern cars might require changes every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, but don’t delay the initial change for a new car. Driving habits also affect it—if you frequently drive on highways or mountain roads, the oil degrades faster, so you should check it earlier. In short, don’t skimp on small expenses; regular maintenance keeps the engine healthy and can even save fuel.
When to change oil for a new car? I'm the kind of person who enjoys tinkering with cars and finds it quite interesting. During the initial few thousand kilometers of a new engine's break-in period, metal shavings and impurities accumulate in the oil. If not removed promptly, they can cause component wear—so the first oil change is typically ideal between 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers. But don't blindly follow old rules; check the manual as each brand differs—my SUV had its first change at 5,000 km. Quick oil quality tip: Pull out the dipstick monthly to check the color. If it's clear, no rush; if dark and black, it's time to act. Don't forget to consider driving conditions—city traffic with high oil temperatures accelerates aging, while rural driving allows for slightly longer intervals. Keep it relaxed and easy!
