What happens when you don’t get an oil change and how long can your vehicle last without oil?
Why Are Regular Oil Changes Necessary?
It’s no secret that motor oil works hard for your vehicle. The oil will circulate throughout the engine, lubricating the moving components in an effort to both reduce friction and prevent overheating.
The oil can also pick up any contaminants or deposits along the way. However, even the highest-quality motor oil does not last forever.
What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?
There are several things that can happen to your vehicle if you do not get an oil change, including:
- Overheating: Clean oil helps to dissipate heat that is generated by the engine. A good oil will properly regulate temperature and prevent overheating.
- Engine Wear And Tear: As time goes on, the oil will lose its ability to efficiently lubricate the engine’s moving parts. Improper lubrication can lead to heat, friction, and overall wear and tear on engine components.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Poor lubrication can cause your engine to work harder than normal. This ultimately leads to an increase in fuel consumption.
- Sludge Buildup: Motor oil will accumulate impurities, such as water, debris, and fuel, over time. Sludge can clog crucial passages and decrease oil flow, potentially resulting in the worst-case scenario: total engine failure.
- Engine Failure: Extending the oil drain interval can result in engine damage and potential failure. Motor oil in the engine can thicken and lose volume, causing either oil starvation or improper lubrication.
- Voided Warranty: The dealer has the right to render your warranty null in the event you do not service your vehicle according to factory specifications.
How Long Can You Go Without An Oil Change?
Oil change timelines are determined by the vehicle manufacturer based on the size of the engine, year, make, and model. It can also be impacted by your specific driving methods.
Always reference the vehicle’s manufacturer recommendation to see when an oil change is called for. Between oil changes, it’s wise to monitor the oil level to ensure the engine has enough oil for optimal performance.
What Happens When A Car Is Low On Oil?
If your vehicle is low or runs out of oil completely, it can lead to extensive engine damage and costly repairs. Without the presence of oil, the engine will be starved of motor oil and not have enough lubrication to protect the engine from heat, wear, or contamination.
Check your oil level often to make sure this does not happen to your vehicle. If the level appears low, top it off with the recommended oil according to the vehicle manufacturer.
Conclusion
Getting routine oil changes based on your vehicle manufacturer recommendations will keep your engine healthy. The oil will be replaced with the proper type, weight, and volume as recommended by the manufacturer. Contact the experienced team at University Auto Repair for more information today!
University Auto Repair In Flagstaff, AZ
When you need your car fixed, you need it fixed fast, and you need it fixed the right way. At University Auto Repair, we strive to provide the best and highest quality auto repairs in the region. We live here too, and we are dedicated to the safety, security, and convenience of drivers and car owners throughout the Flagstaff area. Contact our team today!
