Motor oil: common signs that it should be replaced

• oil became less viscous (you can notice it after the oil dipstick removal);
• particles of carbon deposit and metal cuttings appear in oil;
• working fluid coloured black;
• fuel consumption increased;
• foreign sounds are heard during engine work, for example, characteristic knocking.

How to replace motor oil?

Motor oil replacement intervals depend on the oil type and quality, engine model and car operating conditions. Specialists estimate service life for mineral oil at 5 000 – 8 000 operational kilometers, averagely, and 10 000 – 15 000 operational kilometers – for synthetic oil which is used in modern cars more often. In case the car is used in conditions which overload the engine, replacement intervals are reduced. Specialists recommend to check the oil level and condition every 1 000 operational kilometers. Working fluid should comply with engine characteristics, that is why, choosing new oil, take into account recommendations specified in vehicle manual. Oil filter is replaced together with motor oil. It is also recommended to replace the car air and cabin filters.

To replace motor oil you need to remove the oil filter, oil pan protection plate, then unscrew the oil pan drain plug and drain the oil. When the old oil is out, its condition is assessed in order to define if the engine needs flushing before replacement. After that new working fluid is filled in and a new oil filter is installed.

The replacement procedure can be rather dangerous, because remains if oil on the engine can self-ignite from heat. That is why oil replacement on a car should be entrusted to service station specialists.