One of the most vital elements of car maintenance is knowing the frequency at which you are required to change your engine oil. Whether the car is owned or rented, new oil ensures the smooth running of the engine and minimises wear and maximises fuel efficiency. The inability to change oil may decrease the life of the engine and necessitate expensive fixes.
In this guide, we will break down the engine oil change interval, influencing factors, and the indicators that you may require an urgent oil change sooner than prescribed.
Why Changing Engine Oil Is Important
Oil does more than lubricate; it is the lifeblood of your engine. It
- Provides friction to moving parts to lessen friction and wear.
- Removes heat to cool the engine.
- Keeps the engine clean by capturing dirt and any debris, and metal particles that pass through the engine.
- Resistant to corrosion/rust.
Over time, oil breaks down, becomes dirty, and loses its protective qualities. This can cause:
- Reduced engine performance
- Higher fuel consumption
- Overheating issues
- Costly engine damage
Recommended Engine Oil Change Interval
Every 5,000 to 7,500 Kilometers for Conventional Oil
If your car uses conventional oil, experts recommend changing it every 5,000 to 7,500 kilometres. Frequent city driving with stop-and-go traffic may require changes at the shorter end of this range.
Every 10,000 to 15,000 Kilometers for Synthetic Oil
In cars with synthetic oil, you can, in many cases, wait longer between oil changes, up to 10,00015,000 kilometres. Synthetic has a longer life span, gives better protection, and performs in extreme temperatures.
Follow Your Owner’s Manual
The manufacturer of your car may have special recommendations according to your model, type of engine and the grade of oil you always use. Before determining how and when to change oil, consult your owner’s manual.
Factors That Affect How Often You Should Change Engine Oil
The change in oil mileage may indicate the conditions of your driving habits, the environment in which you drive, and your type of vehicle.
Driving Conditions
- City Driving: Frequent idling, short trips, and heavy traffic cause oil to break down faster.
- Highway Driving: Maintaining steady speeds reduces strain on the oil, enabling longer change intervals.
- Extreme Conditions: Activities like towing, driving on dusty roads, or facing harsh weather may require more frequent oil changes.
Type of Engine Oil
- Conventional Oil: Shorter life span, needs more frequent changes.
- Synthetic Blend: Better than conventional, but still requires monitoring.
- Full Synthetic: Longest-lasting and most protective option.
Vehicle Age
Older vehicles may require more frequent oil changes due to engine wear and leaks.
How to Check Engine Oil
Checking your engine oil life regularly ensures you never run low or use dirty oil.
- Park on a level surface and let the engine cool.
- Pull out the dipstick, wipe it, reinsert it, and pull it out again.
- Regularly checking your engine oil life helps prevent running low or using dirty oil.
Park on a flat surface and allow the engine to cool first.
Signs You Need an Oil Change
Your oil does not require replacement as miles have not been covered, but these are signs that it is time to retire
This is the engine oil warning lamp on
- Oil is heavy or sandy
- Greater engine noise or rapping noise
- Black fumes came out of the radiator
- Smell of oil in the car in large quantities
Benefits of Changing Engine Oil on Time
Engine oil change on time has other advantages besides protection:
- Better Fuel Efficiency – A clean engine burns fuel more efficiently.
- Extended Engine Life – Less wear and tear on moving parts.
- Improved Performance – Smoother acceleration and quieter operation.
- Higher Resale Value – Well-maintained cars attract better buyers.
For Self-Drive Car Users
When you hire a vehicle, you might not be so concerned about changing the oil. All the cars at Gagan Self Drive Cars are timely oiled and maintained to instil safety, a smooth and efficient driving experience. By renting out a car, whether just for a weekend or a month-long vacation, you will end up with a car that will seem as new.
Tips to Extend Oil Life
Try not to make a bunch of short trips that will keep oil from getting a chance to warm all the way up.
Use high-quality fuel to reduce contaminants.
To minimise contaminants, use fuel of good quality.
Make sure oil levels are okay before long journeys.
Conclusion
Change engine oil when you know how. This is important in order to have your car in the best condition. Although these are generalised guidelines, change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 kilometres with conventional oil and 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres with synthetic oil. You should follow the appropriate program, as it depends on how you drive, the type of oil you use, and your vehicle model.
Regular oil changes ensure that you do not have to spend a lot of money repairing your engine, they enhance fuel efficiency, and prolong the lifespan of your engine. And, in case you want to rent a well-maintained self-drive car at Chandigarh, Gagan Self Drive Cars promises every vehicle to be serviced, and thus you may concentrate on your driving delight.
