Oil Change

Why You Should Never Skip an Oil Change

Your car is a well-oiled and robust machine. Or at least that’s what it should be. However, what happens when you skip or ignore an oil change? Are you wondering how long your vehicle can go without needing an oil change? It is worth noting that cars can usually go between 5,000 and 7,500 miles before they need an oil change. 

Also, if you have a vehicle that uses synthetic oil, you may be able to drive 10,000 miles or even 15,000 miles between oil changes. Keep in mind that oil change for cars is important, and engine oil plays a crucial role in a car. This is because it lubricates the engine as well as all its moving parts. Also, note that it helps absorb the heat produced when the various engine parts vigorously rub against each other, ensuring there’s no overheating.

Did you know that the engine oil starts to get dirty and tends to break down with time? And here is the problem. Dirty oil doesn’t efficiently and effectively lubricate your car engine or absorb the heat, which is problematic.

Without this much-needed lubrication using fresh oil, the moving parts of your car engine start grinding together, leading to engine problems.

This is why it is recommended that you change your engine oil at frequent intervals as outlined or specified by the car manufacturer. If you believe you do not need to do this, read on to understand some of the consequences of skipping an oil change for cars.

Your Car Engine can Overheat

An oil change is one of the best ways to control the heat created by your car engine. When the engine gets too hot, you will likely find yourself waiting begrudgingly on the side of the road for help to arrive.

There is no doubt that engine oil is essential for regulating engine temperature. This is because it absorbs and thus reduces the heat generated by friction. Note that old oil can lose its ability to cool the car engine, which increases the risk of your engine overheating.

Although the cooling system of the engine regulates the engine temperature, note that the oil helps prevent costly damage that excessive engine heat triggers.

And engine parts rubbing against each other because of outdated oil will likely cause your engine temperature to peak, and you don’t want that. This may occur even if you maintain your coolant levels properly.

Voids Any Car Warranty

Do you drive a certified pre-owned or new car that is under a dealer’s or manufacturer’s warranty? If yes, don’t expect that the warranty coverage will be valid if you ignore or skip an oil change. You should know that skipping far too many oil changes can be a valid reason for your car manufacturer to render the warranty coverage void.

Also, keep in mind that this may lead to additional expenses worth thousands of dollars in case any problems occur due to missed oil changes.

Poor Mileage

You will be surprised to know that missed oil changes can affect your vehicle’s mileage as well. This is simply because broken down or old oil causes your car engine to work harder, which consequently causes your car to burn more gas per mile. And this means that the more time you take to change your car oil, the more gas you will end up burning.

Your Engine May get Louder or Noisier

Do you think that the only problem that would make your car louder is an exhaust or muffler issue? You’d better think again as not getting an oil change on a frequent basis can also make your vehicle annoyingly loud, and you don’t want that.

This is because infrequent or inadequate oil change will likely cause engine parts to rub together more, increasing the decibels in the process.

Pollution

It is no secret that if your car engine is burning more fuel than needed, it will also cause more pollution, which is bad for the environment. And note that it is not only from the extra fuel that is burnt but also from various impurities trapped in the oil. It is worth noting that these impurities get heated and then released gradually in the exhaust stream as your engine functions. They aren’t only harmful to our environment but your vehicle’s delicate engine sensors.

And if these delicate sensors are affected, note that they may throw off your vehicle’s tuning and overall performance further. So, protect your car as well as the environment by frequently changing your engine oil.

Warning Signs that Your Car Needs an Oil Change

If you are not sure when you need an oil change, there are a few warning signs that you should look out for.

Burning Oil Smell

 If you sense any burning oil smell inside your cabin, most likely, there is an oil leak.

Change in Consistency and Color

You may know that when your engine oil is clear, it is translucent and amber. However, as the engine oil performs its job, it will start picking up debris, and this will turn the engine oil gritty and black.

 It is essential to check the consistency and color of the engine oil by removing the dipstick. And if you are not able to see the dipstick through the engine oil, then you need an oil change.

Bottom Line

There is no doubt that getting an oil change is a simple and economical way to keep your vehicle running efficiently and effectively while preventing costly damage to your engine. Also, note that missing changing your engine oil can cause many other issues, like a louder engine or an engine that overheats and leaves you stranded at the roadside.

Now that you know and understand why you should never ignore or skip an oil change, it will be simpler to keep track of your regularly scheduled maintenance. Also, you will have peace of mind knowing that whenever it is time for an oil change in Jarvis, ON, you can always stop by HR Garage. So, contact us today in order to book an appointment for an oil change.