When Should the Engine Oil Be Changed?
3 Answers
Here are the situations when the engine oil should be changed: 1. Mineral oil: six months or 5,000 kilometers. 2. Semi-synthetic oil: eight months or 7,500 kilometers. 3. Fully synthetic oil: twelve months or 10,000 kilometers. Below is extended information about the functions of engine oil: 1. Reduce movement: reduce friction and damage when parts move against each other. 2. Engine: absorb the heat generated in the engine combustion chamber and piston top, cooling the engine and protecting it from overheating. 3. Maintain cleanliness: prevent pollutants and oxide impurities generated during combustion from adhering to the inside of the engine, keeping the interior clean. 4. Neutralize: neutralize acidic substances produced by combustion gases, preventing the engine from rusting and corroding.
I've been driving for over 20 years, and changing engine oil is really important. Generally, my advice is to consider both mileage and time. Let's talk about mileage first: for most modern cars, you should change the oil every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers, especially if you drive in congested urban areas where the oil gets dirty quickly. Frequent starts and stops put more load on the engine, causing the oil quality to degrade faster and leading to impurity buildup, which can damage the engine over time. As for time, even if you don't drive much, change the oil at least every six months because oil ages and oxidizes, losing its original lubrication and protective properties. I usually check the dipstick regularly: if the oil turns black or the level is too low, head to the maintenance shop right away. Don’t forget that harsh road conditions, like dusty areas, require more frequent changes—safety always comes first. Regular maintenance keeps your car running longer and smoother. Don’t skimp on this; repairs cost way more when things break down.
My principle for car maintenance is simple: change the oil every 6,000-7,000 kilometers. Always remember the recommendations in the owner's manual - most new cars suggest oil changes between 7,000-10,000 km, and many vehicles have dashboard indicator lights as reminders. Consider your driving conditions: in stop-and-go commuter traffic where oil degrades faster, aim for changes around 6,000 km; if you do mostly highway driving, you can extend it to 8,000 km. Don't neglect regular oil checks - pull out the dipstick to inspect level and color. If the oil appears dirty or contains metal particles, address it immediately. Routine maintenance saves money and prevents costly engine failures. Develop good habits: inspect every six months regardless of mileage to maintain peak performance.
