How often should you change your car’s oil?

Most South African motorists should be aware that their car must go for regular services according to the car’s service book. Skipping or being overdue for a service while the car is under warranty can cost you your warranty. But, what about oil changes? How often should that be changed? Let’s discover what should be done.1

Services in South Africa1

Cars are usually serviced every 15 000 km, or 12 months, whichever comes first. But this can vary with different makes of cars.

The frequency of oil changes1

This all depends on the manufacturer’s handbook, where your car is being driven, and how old your car happens to be.

Why should oil be changed? 1

The cleansing properties of old oil are not as great as that of new oil. Certain additives that were in the new oil disappear over time because of the heat. Metal contaminants from engine parts and the crankcase and water form a sludge as time passes. With time, the oil contains progressively more abrasive metal particles that grind away at the engine parts oil is designed to protect.

How often should oil be changed under extreme conditions? 1

Perhaps you automatically think of arctic conditions or the hot, dusty desert as extreme conditions. However, do you have many stop-and-go short trips for shopping in the city while the engine never gets hot and you don’t drive on the freeway? In such cases, the engine never gets sufficiently hot to evaporate the water in the crankcase.

Driving in very hot weather is extreme1

Driving under such hot, windy, dusty conditions or consistently towing heavy loads means the oil needs to be changed more frequently with older vehicles. For new cars, follow the manufacturer’s handbook for the frequency of oil changes when driving under extreme conditions.

What about oil changes under optimal conditions? 1

The frequency of oil changes depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations, based on optimal operating conditions.

New cars versus old cars regarding oil changes1

New cars don’t need their oil to be changed as frequently as old cars, while also bearing in mind that oil quality has improved over the years. But to be safe, at least change the oil based on the manufacturer’s recommendations, such as every 15000 km or 12 months, whichever one comes first. Driving a lot on freeways may mean you could prolong the oil change interval. Apart from brand-new cars, don’t exceed the mileage or time interval as prescribed in your car’s service book.

Disclaimer

Because of the complex nature of car insurance, this article can only be seen as information. That is also why it is recommended that anyone wanting to purchase a car insurance product must first see a certified financial advisor for professional advice.

Sources:

1. 1. How Often Should You Change Your Oil?