When to change your car's oil? Find out the ideal frequency to keep your engine in good condition

Regular oil changes are essential for the proper functioning of your engine; see when to do it

Keeping your car in good condition goes far beyond a simple question of aesthetics. It doesn't matter if you have a new car or a model older, proper maintenance is critical to ensuring your engine continues to perform as it should, and one of the most important steps in that process is changing the oil.

Have you ever stopped to think about how important oil is for your vehicle’s engine? Although it’s easy to overlook this aspect, oil plays an essential role in keeping the internal parts of your engine working properly.

What does oil do for the engine?

Imagine your car's engine as a living organism. It has several moving parts that need constant lubrication to function properly. The main function of oil is precisely this: to lubricate the moving parts of the engine, such as pistons, connecting rods and valves, to reduce friction between them. With controlled friction, the engine becomes more efficient, wear is reduced and the heat generated by the operation of the parts is dissipated more efficiently.

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Why is regular oil change important?

Now that you know what oil does for your engine, it’s important to know that changing it regularly is just as essential. With continued use, oil will lose its effectiveness. With each drive, the oil accumulates dirt and residue in the engine, in addition to degrading and losing its attributes – that is, its ability to lubricate effectively.

If the oil is not changed within the recommended interval, it can begin to harm the engine. This can result in overheating, excessive wear on parts and even failure. mechanical serious. When oil becomes contaminated or loses its properties, it no longer protects the engine as it should, which can shorten its lifespan and increase the risk of problems.

When to change the oil?

Oil change frequency can vary depending on the vehicle model and operating conditions, but in general, it is recommended to change your oil every 5.000 to 10.000 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. If you are unsure of the ideal interval for your vehicle, consult your owner's manual, which will usually have detailed information on what is best for your model.

If you frequently drive in severe conditions, such as heavy traffic, constant hills, or extreme temperatures, you may need to change your oil more frequently.

What can happen if you don't change your oil regularly?

Skipping an oil change can lead to serious engine problems. Here are some of the most common risks:

Accelerated wear of parts: Without proper lubrication, moving engine parts can suffer excessive wear, compromising vehicle performance and causing costly repairs.
Increased fuel consumption: Dirty or deteriorated oil makes your engine run harder, which can increase fuel consumption and reduce your vehicle's efficiency.
Decreased engine life: Without proper lubrication and cleaning, the engine can deteriorate more quickly, reducing its durability.
Risk of overheating: Oil helps dissipate heat generated by the engine. If it is not changed regularly, the risk of overheating increases, which can cause serious damage.
Accumulation of impurities: Dirty oil accumulates particles and residues in the engine, which can impair its operation and cause failures.

Therefore, ensuring that your engine oil is changed at the right time is not just a matter of economy, but a matter of safety and durability.

Types of oil and how to choose the best one for your car

There are different types of carrier oil available on the market, and choosing the right one depends on the type of engine and the specific needs of your vehicle. Let’s take a look at the most common options:

Mineral oil: Made from crude oil, it is one of the oldest types of oil and is often used in older engines. Although it is cheaper, it has a shorter lifespan and needs to be changed more frequently.
Semi-synthetic oil: This is a blend of mineral and synthetic oils, combining the best of both to provide superior lubrication. It is commonly used in passenger vehicles and offers good performance and engine protection.
Synthetic oil: Made from high-purity synthetic base oils, this type of oil is more expensive but offers excellent performance, improved fuel economy and superior protection, especially for modern engines.

Choosing the right oil depends on several factors, such as the age of your vehicle, the type of driving and the weather conditions. Consult your car's manual to find out which oil is best suited for your model. And remember: choosing a good quality oil can make all the difference in engine performance.

Common questions about oil changes

Do I need to change the oil every 3.000 km? The answer depends on your vehicle and the type of oil. Modern cars can run up to 10.000 km without needing to be changed, but always consult your owner's manual.
What if I haven't driven the recommended mileage, should I still change the oil? If the recommended oil change time has passed but you haven't driven a certain amount of mileage, it's still important to change the oil. Time can affect the quality of the oil, even if the car hasn't been driven much.
Should I change the oil filter every time I change the oil? Yes, the oil filter should be changed with every oil change. It can accumulate impurities from the old oil and compromise the effectiveness of the new change.

Getting your oil changed regularly is one of the best things you can do to ensure your car’s engine continues to run smoothly for years to come. Plus, this simple maintenance can help prevent costly problems and keep your vehicle safe and efficient.

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When to change your car's oil? Find out the ideal frequency to keep your engine in good condition