Question 1

When oil needs changing

Accepted Answer

Engine oil change intervals have shortened considerably in recent years as manufacturers have responded to more short-trip driving and the rise of turbocharged engines. The current general recommendation is 10 000–15 000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. Some manufacturers (BMW, Mercedes) have even moved back to a 15 000 km or 24 month cycle after previously extending Longlife to 30 000 km.

Short-trip driving stresses oil far more than motorway driving for the same mileage. When the engine doesn't reach full operating temperature, fuel condenses into the oil, diluting it and reducing its lubricating properties. For a car that does a lot of city driving we recommend an 8 000–10 000 km interval even if the service book allows longer.

Oil colour and smell tell you about its condition. Fresh oil is a clear yellow or slightly amber. After normal use oil darkens but shouldn't be thick or tarry. If the oil smells of fuel or has gone milky brown, the change is overdue or there's a deeper problem in the system.

Question 2

How the oil change is done

Accepted Answer

The car is raised on a lift and the engine is warmed slightly so the oil flows more easily. The sump plug is opened and the old oil drained completely. The plug washer is always replaced — reusing it leads to leaks later. The oil filter is changed at the same time and new filters are fitted with an O-ring that matches the manufacturer's specification.

Choosing the right amount and grade of oil is critical. Newer cars typically require a Longlife-approved oil to manufacturer spec (for example Mercedes MB 229.52, BMW LL-04, VW 507.00). The wrong oil can clog the DPF and destroy a dual-mass flywheel within a few thousand kilometres.

The job ends by checking oil level via the dipstick or digital sensor, starting the engine and watching the oil light go out. The service book is updated with the kilometres and the next service interval. On modern cars the service is also logged digitally into the vehicle's system — a stamped service book alone no longer preserves resale value.

Question 3

Why does an engine start consuming too much oil?

Accepted Answer

Normal oil consumption in a modern engine is at most 0.5 l / 1 000 km, often much less. If litres of oil need topping up between services, the underlying cause is usually falling cylinder compression, ageing seals or a leaking turbocharger. A worn engine "eats" oil from above the piston rings; it then burns in the combustion chamber and shows as blue smoke out of the exhaust on acceleration. Turbocharger bearing wear lets oil cross over to the intake side, where it burns and can produce puffs of blue smoke on cold starts. Both repairs are expensive, and heavy oil top-ups between services are a clear signal that inspection is needed.

Oil Change in Vantaa

Oil change

When oil needs changing

How the oil change is done

Why does an engine start consuming too much oil?

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