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How often should you change your car's oil? Experts say it's not always 5,000 kilometers
🇨🇷 Costa Rica /Technology

How often should you change your car's oil? Experts say it's not always 5,000 kilometers

From La Nación · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

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  • Experts suggest that the recommended mileage for changing a car's oil may not always be 5,000 kilometers.
  • Factors such as the vehicle, lubricant type, and driving habits can influence the optimal oil change interval.
  • Warning signs like engine noise, dark smoke, and burning smells may indicate a need for an oil replacement.

The conventional wisdom of changing a car's oil every 5,000 kilometers may not always hold true, according to automotive experts. The ideal interval for an oil change can vary significantly depending on several key factors.

These factors include the specific make and model of the vehicle, the type of engine oil used – whether conventional or synthetic – and the driver's typical habits, such as frequent short trips or prolonged highway driving. Modern vehicles and advanced lubricants often allow for longer intervals than previously recommended.

Drivers are advised to pay attention to their vehicle's signals. Unusual noises emanating from the engine, the emission of dark smoke from the exhaust, or a persistent burning smell can all be indicators that the engine oil needs to be replaced. Consulting the vehicle's owner's manual for manufacturer-specific recommendations is also crucial for maintaining optimal engine health.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by La Nación in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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