The most basic yet crucial maintenance for a used car over 10 years old is changing the engine oil.

When the car is new, you can somewhat ignore the manufacturer's recommended intervals, but for older vehicles, the situation is completely different.

The internal metal wear of the engine progresses, and the rubber seals or gaskets harden, making the oil condition much more sensitive to changes.

For vehicles over 10 years old, it is safe to change the engine oil between 5,000km and 7,500km, or within 6 months to 1 year.

Especially for cars that frequently drive in the city or in traffic jams, it is advisable to change the oil at 5,000km.

Even if the mileage is low, over time the oil oxidizes and loses viscosity, so it should be changed at least once a year.

Choosing the right type of oil is also important. Just because a vehicle is old doesn't mean you should use cheap oil, as it can actually be harmful.

In cases where the internal clearances of the engine are larger, using oil with slightly higher viscosity can often be beneficial.

For example, if you were using 5W-20, moving up to 5W-30 or 10W-30 can be effective in reducing engine noise and preventing oil consumption.

However, it should be chosen within the manufacturer's recommended range.

Another important aspect is the oil filter.

For older vehicles, the filter tends to accumulate sludge and metal debris, so it must be replaced as well.

If the filter is not changed, new oil can quickly become contaminated, reducing its effectiveness.

It is also necessary to develop a habit of regularly checking the oil condition.

Older vehicles often consume oil naturally, so it is advisable to check the gauge about once a month to monitor the oil level and color.

If the color is excessively dark or the viscosity has thinned, it is safer to change the oil sooner.

Your driving habits also significantly affect oil lifespan. Avoid the habit of accelerating rapidly right after starting the engine, as it puts stress on the engine.

Especially in winter, it is better to allow the oil to circulate sufficiently and start slowly. These small habit changes can greatly influence engine lifespan.

Ultimately, for a used car over 10 years old, how well it has been maintained is more important than how long it has been driven.

By slightly advancing the oil change intervals, managing both the oil and filter, and consistently checking the condition, you can effectively maintain the vehicle's condition.

If you want to keep your car for a long time without incurring high costs, paying attention to engine oil should be the first step.