The 'golden time' to change your car's engine oil is the perfect time.

1. When to change engine oil

This type of oil protects the engine from wear and tear, prevents rust on engine components, reduces friction, prevents deposits, and ensures optimal engine performance.

Engine oil is typically a dark amber color; when it gets dirty, it turns dark brown or black, indicating that it needs replacing. Previously, manufacturers recommended changing the oil every 5,000 km, but with newer vehicles using this type of oil, the recommended interval has been increased to 12,000-14,000 km.

When changing the oil, remember to also change the oil filter because as it circulates in the engine, the oil must pass through the filter, where the filter mesh will retain soot that can wear down engine parts.
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2. When to change power steering fluid

When the steering wheel is turned, the valve delivers this oil into the cylinder, then the piston of the power steering system compresses and moves the oil within the cylinder, reducing the force required on the steering wheel; therefore, the driver does not have to use as much force on the steering wheel to move the car in the correct direction.

Power steering fluid is typically clear or red; it should be replaced when it turns dark amber or purplish red. However, because it is not subjected to high stress and is enclosed within the power steering system cylinder, it does not wear down easily, so it can be replaced after 100,000-130,000 km.

3. When to change brake fluid

Brake fluid's primary function is to transmit force from the brake pedal through the high-pressure pump containing the fluid to all four wheels. Over time, brake fluid becomes damp and loses its effectiveness; therefore, if you notice a loss of braking precision, you must replace it immediately to ensure safety.

Brake fluid is usually clear; when it turns a greenish-blue color, it indicates a very poor condition, and the vehicle is no longer safe to drive. Manufacturers recommend replacing it after 3-4 years of use; if you frequently drive in mountainous areas and use the brakes, the replacement time will be sooner than recommended.

4. When to change transmission fluid

The purpose of this type of oil is to lubricate the gears in the gearbox; the oil is not subjected to load, compression, and operates in a confined space, so it does not wear out. Therefore, you don't need to worry too much about this type of oil and only need to check the level of depletion to ensure the gearbox is not experiencing any problems.

Transmission fluid needs to be replaced after 130,000 - 150,000 km; the fluid is bright red when new, turning dark red when it's due for replacement.

5. When to change the coolant

After absorbing heat, the coolant is pumped through the radiator, where a fan cools it down and recirculates it from the beginning.

The vehicle's cooling system constantly operates under high temperatures and pressures, so corrosion occurs over time. Manufacturers recommend replacing the coolant every 2-3 years, or after 40,000 km, to ensure the engine doesn't overheat during use.

* Practical uses of automotive engine oil

• - Cooling:Lubricating oil dissipates the heat generated by friction and fuel combustion, which can reach over 350°C in the piston area.
• - Cleaning:Engine oil helps clean the internal parts of the engine.
• - Sealing:Engine oil forms a seal between the piston rings, piston, and cylinder wall to maintain pressure in the combustion chamber and minimize combustion gases leaking into the crankcase.
• - Contains residue:The lubricating oil will act as a reservoir for suspended particles, preventing the formation of large deposits that could clog the oil filter.