When Should You Change Your Oil Based on Remaining Oil Level?
2 Answers
Generally, when the oil life drops below around 10%, the vehicle's instrument cluster will issue a reminder, indicating that maintenance is required. Below are some key considerations for car maintenance: 1. Use lubricating oil of the appropriate quality grade: The selection standard should meet or exceed the manufacturer's specified requirements. 2. Regularly change the oil and oil filter: Lubricating oil of any quality grade will undergo changes in its properties during use. After a certain mileage, its performance deteriorates, which can lead to various engine issues. To avoid malfunctions, the oil should be changed regularly based on usage conditions, and the oil level should be kept moderate. 3. Maintain good crankcase ventilation: The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system should be serviced regularly, and contaminants around the PCV valve should be cleaned. 4. Regularly clean the crankcase: During engine operation, high-pressure unburned gases, acids, moisture, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides from the combustion chamber enter the crankcase through the gap between the piston rings and cylinder walls. These mix with metal particles from component wear, forming sludge. In small amounts, the sludge remains suspended in the oil, but in large amounts, it precipitates, clogging filters and oil passages, making engine lubrication difficult and causing wear. Additionally, oil oxidation at high temperatures can form varnish and carbon deposits that stick to pistons, increasing fuel consumption, reducing power, and in severe cases, causing piston rings to seize and leading to cylinder scoring. Therefore, the crankcase should be cleaned regularly to maintain engine cleanliness. 5. Regularly clean the fuel system: As fuel travels through the fuel lines to the combustion chamber for burning, it inevitably forms gums and carbon deposits that accumulate in the fuel lines, carburetor, fuel injectors, and combustion chamber. These deposits interfere with fuel flow, disrupt the proper air-fuel ratio, impair fuel atomization, and cause engine issues such as rough idling, knocking, unstable idle speed, and poor acceleration. Regular fuel system cleaning ensures the engine remains in optimal condition. 6. Regularly service the radiator: Rust and scale buildup in the engine radiator are common issues. Rust and scale restrict coolant flow in the cooling system, reducing heat dissipation and potentially causing engine overheating or even damage. Coolant oxidation can also form acidic substances that corrode the radiator's metal components, leading to leaks. Regularly cleaning the radiator to remove rust and scale not only ensures proper engine operation but also extends the overall lifespan of the radiator and engine.
I've been driving for over 30 years, and engine oil maintenance isn't determined by the remaining quantity. When checking the oil level, use the dipstick to observe the min and max lines. If it's low, you do need to add a bit of oil, but that's a different matter from maintenance replacement. The right time for an oil change depends on your mileage and time. Generally, it's recommended to change the oil every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or at least every six months. Over time, engine oil turns black, thickens, and may even mix with impurities, leading to insufficient engine lubrication, faster wear of parts, and increased fuel consumption. I make it a habit to check the oil level every time I refuel and schedule regular comprehensive maintenance at the shop, including oil and filter changes. This approach is worry-free and safe, preventing major engine issues. Remember, maintenance is about planning, not judging by the oil level.
