29.8. 2024
| Advices Service

Engine oil change: Why and how often?

The engine is the heart of the car, so it needs to be taken care of carefully. Regular oil changes support trouble-free engine operation and extend its life. Experts recommend changing the engine oil every 10 to 15 thousand kilometers. Each car manufacturer specifies the recommended engine oil change interval in the manual for a specific car. In addition to the engine oil, it is also important to change the oil filter.
Advices Service
Engine oil change: Why and how often?

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Engine Oil Change: What Happens If You Don't Change Regularly?  

It doesn't pay to forget to change the oil regularly in your car. This can significantly shorten the life of the engine. The darkest scenario? Carbon deposits build up inside the engine, causing insufficient lubrication. Insufficient lubrication will cause the engine to seize, and then there is usually nothing left but to buy a new engine. Delaying oil changes can also lead to a faster decline in engine performance and increased fuel consumption.

5 reasons why changing the oil in a car is important for the engine 

1. Life extension 

Engine oil reduces friction between moving engine parts, reducing wear and extending engine life.

2. Overheat protection

The oil helps to dissipate heat from the engine, preventing it from overheating and damaging the engine.

3. Corrosion protection

Engine oil contains additives that protect the metal parts of the engine from corrosion.

4. Removal of impurities

The oil traps dirt and particles that accumulate in the engine. These impurities can then be removed during an oil change.

5. Maintaining tightness

The oil helps keep the engine tight, reducing the risk of leaks and loss of pressure.

Oil change - how often? 

Many drivers believe that an oil change after two years may be sufficient. However, this may not be far from the truth. In general, it can be said that nowadays most manufacturers specify an oil change interval of 2 years or 30,000 km. However, most experts and mechanics agree that the ideal engine oil change interval is 10 to 15 thousand kilometers or 1 year. This replacement interval can significantly affect the life of the engine.

If the vehicle is operated in difficult conditions, you can shorten this limit to 5 to 8 thousand kilometers. You can also shorten the interval if you want to be absolutely sure that your engine is getting the best care for its optimal condition. The properties of engine oil are affected not only by the number of kilometers traveled, but also by operating conditions, the frequency of cold starts and other parameters.

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Image by fabrikasimf on Freepik

Summary: What affects the recommended oil change frequency? 

  • Vehicle and engine type. In general, it is recommended to change the oil every 10 to 15 thousand km or after a year. For so-called long-life oils, the limit is usually higher - roughly 20,000 km or more. Especially for diesel engines, high-quality and regularly changed oil has a significant effect on the service life of other components, such as the turbocharger or particulate filter.
  • Driving conditions. If you often drive in demanding conditions, such as city traffic with frequent stops and starts, or in extreme temperatures, it is a good idea to shorten the engine oil change interval. 
  • Engine age and condition. Older or high mileage engines may require more frequent oil changes.
  • Manufacturer's recommendation. It is always a good idea to follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations found in the owner's manual. But you can't go wrong by shortening the engine oil change interval.

Engine oil and filter replacement 

Every oil change should also include changing the oil filter. The oil filter plays a vital role in maintaining the life and performance of the engine as it traps impurities from the engine oil. A clogged filter can then restrict oil flow, which leads to greater engine wear and, at the same time, higher fuel consumption due to insufficient lubrication. You can find the correct type of oil filter in the manual from the manufacturer or from specialists in a car service.

Oil change pending 

You can also change the oil and filter yourself at home. However, it is necessary to have the conditions for this operation. A jack or ramp, a container for draining and disposing of old oil, the necessary tools and more. Therefore, it is better to leave it to the specialists. Changing the oil while waiting is a matter of course here at TASY.

The entire oil and filter change process takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. We use high quality oils and oil filters for all types of cars. You can also visit our self-service washing center, which is one of the most modern in Brno.