The general consensus for how often to change oil in terms of kilometers is as follows:
- Older standard advice was every 4,800 km (3,000 miles), but this is now considered outdated.
- Most modern vehicles with advanced engine technology and oils typically require oil changes between 12,000 km and 16,000 km.
- A common practical recommendation is changing oil every 10,000 km or every six months, whichever comes first.
- For severe driving conditions (frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, extreme weather), oil changes should be more frequent, around every 5,000 to 7,500 km.
- Always refer to the vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendations, as oil change intervals vary by make and model.
- Synthetic oils tend to allow longer intervals between changes compared to conventional oils.
In summary, most drivers today can expect to change their oil roughly every 10,000 to 15,000 km under normal conditions, but it is wise to do it at least twice a year even if the kilometer range isn't reached. Severe driving conditions necessitate shorter intervals, closer to 5,000 to 7,500 km. These points reflect modern automotive recommendations and advances in oil and engine technology while balancing maintenance cost, engine health, and environmental considerations.
