What Happens if You Skip an Oil Change?
Regular car maintenance like oil changes is necessary to keep your vehicle in its best shape, but it can sometimes feel like a hassle. If you just took your car in for an inspection a couple months ago, do you really need an oil change already? Or, if your car is running fine, surely it’s okay to postpone that oil change for a while, right? But what does that actually mean for your car? What happens within your engine if you skip an oil change?
Engine Damage
Leaving the same oil in your car for too long can cause a great deal of strain and damage to your engine. The oil itself will get thick as it collects contaminants and faces the heat and friction in the machinery. Once thickened, it is no longer effective as a lubricant, meaning the engine itself will face increased grind, friction, and effort to work. Because of that, there’s also an increased risk of overheating. With the engine having to work harder, the car will have a reduced fuel efficiency from normal, and increase emissions. Making the engine run this way can eventually cause a full engine failure. Even if it doesn’t get quite so bad, skipping oil changes can void any auto warranties and reduce your vehicle’s resale value, since there is a record of a lack-of-care or potential damage in the car.
Signs You’ve Gone Too Long Without an Oil Change
If you’re not sure when you’re supposed to get your next oil change — there are ways to find out, which we’ll get into in a moment — and you’re not sure how long it’s been, there are some signs to watch out for to tell you that it’s been a little too long. If you start to notice that your engine is unusually loud, your car isn’t as fuel efficient as it should be, the oil on your dipstick is dark or gritty, and especially if you notice a burning smell, you should take your car in to Total Auto Car for an oil change, and any other engine repairs it may need.
When Should You Get an Oil Change?
When and how often you should get an oil change depends on your car’s age, make, and model, as each can have a slightly different answer or window for maintenance. However, one easy way to know when you should be getting your oil changed is to reference the techs who worked on your last oil change. They may have left a sticker inside your front windshield — up in the corner, out of the way — that will list a recommended date or mileage for you to base your next oil change on. Another way to find out an oil change schedule is to check your vehicle owner’s manual. And, of course, your Total Auto Care ASE-Master Certified Technicians are happy to give you a recommendation as well.
Schedule Your Oil Change at Total Auto Care
Total Auto Car is committed to your satisfaction and to our community, so our preventive maintenance services like oil changes, tire rotations, brake services, and more are our highest priorities, keeping you, your car, and our community roads safe. When it’s time for your next oil change, give us a call or book an appointment, and we’ll take care of your engine.
