When Should New Cars Have Their Oil Changed?

[VonEvelyn]

New cars should have their oil changed after driving 5,000 kilometers. The vehicle's maintenance manual specifies the first maintenance time, and the oil should be changed during this initial service. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves multiple functions such as lubrication and wear reduction, aiding in cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, as well as shock absorption. It is often referred to as the 'blood' of a car. Car maintenance involves regular preventive tasks such as inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the vehicle. The goal is to maintain a clean appearance, ensure normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent malfunctions, slow down the deterioration of vehicle components, and extend their service life.

[SanEsther]

I just bought a new car last year, and the salesperson specifically emphasized the first service time when I picked up the car. Most brands require the first service at around 5,000 kilometers or within six months of picking up the car, whichever comes first. I remember the Honda 4S store told me I must return for the first service within 6,000 kilometers, which included a free oil change service. However, many cars now have extended intervals. My Lynk & Co 01 manual states that full synthetic oil can be changed every 10,000 kilometers. The key is to follow the dashboard alerts and the maintenance manual—don’t fall for repair shops trying to convince you to change the oil every three months.

[MadelineLynn]

Having driven for over 20 years, there are three key points to consider for new car oil change intervals. The first maintenance is usually at 5,000 kilometers or six months, when the dealership will perform the first free oil change. After that, mineral oil should be changed every 5,000 km, semi-synthetic every 7,500 km, and full synthetic is best not to exceed 10,000 km. Additionally, driving habits greatly influence this - frequent short trips or driving in high-temperature environments require shortening the oil change cycle by 20%. My advice is don't be too dogmatic; regularly check the dipstick under the hood - when the oil turns black, it's time for a change.

[DiMaci]

Just got my driver's license and bought a used Fit. I specifically researched the engine oil issue. For the first couple of years with a new car, you really don't need to change it too frequently—just follow the manual's recommendation of around 8,000 kilometers. Nowadays, full synthetic oils are of excellent quality; my cousin's Accord only gets serviced every 15,000 kilometers. Remember, don't change the oil at roadside stalls for a new car—the original oil from the 4S shop offers better engine protection. If you frequently drive on highways, you can appropriately extend the interval, but if you're often stuck in city traffic, it's safer to change it on time.

[McSebastian]

Actually, the oil change interval is highly dependent on the driving environment. In extremely cold northern regions, it's best to perform the first oil change for a new car as early as 3,000 km; in hot and humid southern areas, the interval should also be shortened by 20%. Based on my experience as a ride-hailing driver, I recommend changing the oil at 3,000 km for a new car to remove metal particles from the break-in period. After that, for city driving, change every 5,000 km, while for mainly highway driving, it can be extended to 8,000 km. The worst thing is buying a car and forgetting to check the maintenance manual – some cars come with smart reminder systems which are very convenient.