Overview

• Engine oil breaks down over time even if the car sits parked, so changes must follow the manual’s time limits, not only mileage.
• Each engine requires oil that meets its specified viscosity and manufacturer standards, and using the wrong product can impair performance and cause damage.
• The oil filter should be replaced at every oil change to prevent trapped debris from circulating and accelerating internal wear.
• Stop‑and‑go traffic, dirt roads, and frequent short trips count as severe use, which calls for earlier oil changes than normal schedules.
• Mixing different oils is acceptable only to top up in an emergency, and the mixture should be replaced with the correct oil as soon as possible.