What Happens if You Don’t Change Your Car’s Oil?

What happens to a car’s engine if you don’t change the oil regularly? Believe us, you don’t want to find out!

It’s important to understand the role of oil in your car’s engine. Oil lubricates the engine’s moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. Over time, however, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt, debris, and other particles. This can lead to a number of problems if the oil is not changed. 

Let’s say it this way: no oil equals no car. 

Consequences of Neglecting Oil Changes

Skipping regular oil changes for your car may result in unclean and polluted oil buildup. Over time, as oil breaks down and becomes contaminated, it can create sludge and other deposits that can build up in the engine.

Contaminated oil can cause a loss of lubrication in the engine’s moving parts, leading to increased friction and heat. This may cause engine damage, decreased performance, higher fuel consumption, wear and tear, and costly repairs. Consider the potential financial consequences – would you want to pick up the bill for an engine replacement?

Telltale Signs Your Oil Needs Changing 

There are several signs that your engine oil may need to be changed. These include:

• Dark, dirty oil: Over time, oil can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and other particles. It may be time for a change if you check your oil and it appears dark and dirty.
• Low oil level: If your oil level is low, it may be an indication that your oil needs to be changed. Keep your oil level within the recommended range by checking it regularly.
• Engine warning light: The engine warning light may indicate that you need to change your oil.
• Unusual engine noises: If you hear unusual noises from your engine, such as knocking or ticking sounds, it may indicate that your oil needs to be changed.
• Exhaust smoke: If smoke is coming from your exhaust, your oil may be the culprit.

If you experience any of these signs, you should take your car to a trusted mechanic like Complete Auto Service of Ann Arbor as soon as possible to change the oil and check for any other potential issues. 

Maintenance Habits for a Healthy Engine

Most folks who purchase cars want to have their vehicle for a long time. People become attached to their cars, and why not? With the driving distance to work and back, many people practically live in their cars. Some people stock their vehicles with winter supplies such as blankets, emergency food, water, flashlights, and batteries. 

Preparation makes sense, especially in inclement weather. So if you go to all the trouble to gather your supplies and prepare the inside of your car, then why not make sure your car engine is ready, too? 

What can you do to make sure you’re always prepared?

Here are some suggestions:

• Set a maintenance schedule and stick to it. Following a plan means you don’t have to wonder or worry about whether to change your oil, replace your filter, or rotate your tires. We’ll call this one peace of mind.
• It’s also a good idea to have your car serviced by a trusted mechanic to catch any potential issues early on. This can save you money in the long run by preventing major problems from developing.
•  So, how often should you change the oil in your car? The type of oil you use and the type of vehicle you drive determine how much you should change. Generally, most car owners change their oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, newer cars may have longer oil change intervals of up to 10,000 miles or more. 
• It’s always best to consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations. Also, if you drive frequently in stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, or dusty conditions, you may need to change your oil more frequently.

Taking care of your car on a regular basis and addressing issues as soon as they arise can help ensure that it runs reliably for years to come.

It doesn’t matter if you live in New Orleans, San Francisco, or Ann Arbor, Michigan. Cars that run on oil need clean oil; it’s that simple.

One of the great things about Complete Auto Service is that there’s no waiting; your emergency is our emergency. We will take your vehicle immediately. Just walk in and tell us what you need, or give us a call today. 

Don’t put off till tomorrow what Complete Auto Service of Ann Arbor can fix today.