How Long Can You Go Without an Oil Change?
Have you ever wondered how long you can go without an oil change? Most mechanics will say you should change your oil every 3,000 miles. However, this rule is a general guideline, so the exact figure can vary depending on the vehicle, oil type, and driving conditions.
Why Do You Need an Oil Change?
An oil change is a standard maintenance service. Your car’s oil keeps your engine functioning well and your vehicle running at peak performance. Engine oil is an essential lubricant that keeps all your components working as they should without accumulating waste or debris.
Over time, your motor oil will deteriorate. When this happens, your engine works harder to keep your car running while consuming excessive fuel. The oil light on a car may notify you when concerns arise, but don’t depend on your car’s oil light! Perform regular oil changes and avoid diving into your savings to replace damaged parts or worrying about your car’s lifespan.
What happens when you get into the habit of changing your engine oil regularly? Here’s a snapshot of the benefits: - Extends your engine’s life and performance - Provides better gas mileage - Protects your engine against corrosion - Removes engine sludge - Reduces overheating - Helps reduce unnecessary expenses - Extends the life of your vehicle
What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?
If you go too long without an oil change, you’ll experience serious consequences that affect your engine and your entire car.
So what exactly happens if you disregard an oil change? Here’s a sample of some of the consequences of delaying this standard car service: - Reduced engine performance: This is the most detrimental consequence. Without fresh oil, your engine won’t have enough lubrication to optimize oil additives and prevent contaminants from damaging your engine’s components. Eventually, your engine will completely break down, prompting you to invest a fortune in a new one. - Inefficient gas mileage: Proper gas mileage can save a lot at the gas pump. With fresh, new oil, your engine receives more than enough lubrication to keep it running efficiently without consuming excessive gasoline. - Overheated engine: Your oil passes through an oil cooler and sends it back to your engine to help keep it cool. This process transfers heat away from the combustion chamber and prevents your engine’s components from breaking down. Used-up oil doesn’t provide the same cooling capacity you need to prevent your engine from overheating. - Corrosion buildup: Without an oil change, your engine’s metal surfaces will become exposed to corrosion. Since engine oil acts as a protective coating against carbon compounds and unburned fuel, getting a regular change will ensure your engine is free of unwanted particles that intensify corrosion. - Voided warranties: Your car warranty is financial protection covering repairs. While a warranty provides financial relief, you can lose it if you don’t follow your manufacturer’s guidelines by changing your oil regularly.
So how long can you go without an oil change? While newer vehicles can go between 5,000 and 7,000 miles before service, it’s best not to test your car’s limit. Even if you use synthetic oil, which provides better wear protection than conventional oil, a quality oil change service will save money and ensure your vehicle drives like it’s brand new.
Get an Oil Change with Take 5
Regularly scheduled oil changes are essential for vehicle maintenance, and it’s better to be more cautious than frugal when it comes to your car’s engine. At Take 5, we understand that life can get hectic. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing fast and efficient maintenance services to get you back on the road quickly. With our stay-in-your-car oil changes, you can count on us for exceptional services that keep your engine and vehicle in prime condition.
We don’t believe our customers should carry the burden of hefty maintenance costs, which is why we offer service coupons for our customers.
Find a nearby Take 5 location to get your oil changed today!
