Why is it necessary to change the engine oil and oil filter regularly?

As is well known, engine oil is a very crucial part of car maintenance. However, there are various claims about engine oil change circulating in the market. So, why is it necessary to change engine oil and oil filters regularly? The editor has specially compiled several common questions about engine oil and oil filter replacement as well as car maintenance. Come and take a look together!

First, we need to figure out: Why do we need to change the engine oil??

Engine oil itself contains a certain amount of gum, impurities, moisture and additives. Meanwhile, during the operation of the engine, the introduction of metal wear debris, the entry of impurities in the air and the formation of engine oil oxides gradually increase the amount of impurities in the engine oil.

Second, when is the most appropriate time to change the engine oil?

The time we change engine oil is generally based on kilometers and time. Whether we follow the advice of experienced drivers or refer to the manual, they usually give us a recommended value. For instance, ordinary mineral oil should be changed every 5,000 kilometers or half a year, semi-synthetic oil every 7,500 kilometers, and fully synthetic oil every 10,000 kilometers. These standards are indeed correct, but we also need to determine based on the actual road conditions. If we add a bucket of engine oil with only three months left on its shelf life, it should be replaced even if it has not reached these kilometers!

Thirdly, why is it said that changing the engine oil is important for car maintenance?

Under normal circumstances, the lifespan of a car engine is generally around 10 to 20 years. The better it is maintained, the longer its lifespan will be. Engine oil (lubricating oil) plays a crucial role in protecting the engine, including lubrication, cooling, cleaning, anti-corrosion and sealing. Only clean engine oil can accomplish all these tasks.

Fourth, what should be noted when changing the engine oil?

The function of the oil filter is to remove impurities, gum and water from the engine oil and deliver clean engine oil to all lubrication points. Therefore, the engine oil should be replaced simultaneously with the oil filter.

Fifth, what are the benefits of replacing the engine oil and the oil filter at the same time?

Usually, changing both the engine oil and the oil filter at the same time is beneficial for grasping the replacement cycle of the oil filter and is also an effective way to keep the oil circuit clean. It is also easy for technicians and consumers to remember the replacement time. Thus, it can be seen that to ensure the effective function of the engine oil, maintaining its cleanliness is of vital importance. A good oil filter can make car maintenance twice as effective with half the effort.