What Happens if You Don't Change Your Oil?

Your engine oil might not be expensive or even something you give much thought to, but your vehicle can’t keep running when the oil isn’t regularly changed. When your engine oil becomes contaminated, the engine cannot absorb heat, pistons, and other components, leading to anything from overheating or more serious issues.

Read on for answers to the following questions:

• Why Are Oil Changes Important?
• How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
• Can You Change Your Oil Yourself?

Why Are Oil Changes Important?

Engine oil doesn’t just have one task—it’s responsible for several things, all of which are vital for clean running. Your oil:

• Lubricates the engine, preventing the metal-on-metal contact that can cause serious damage and see the pistons welding themselves together.
• Absorbs heat from engine components and carries it away to prevent overheating.

What happens if you don’t get your oil changed? Over time, the engine picks up dirt and debris, contaminating the oil and preventing it from functioning correctly. That means if you want your engine running in prime condition, you need to have fresh oil in your vehicle.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

You should generally get your oil changed every three months or 3,000 miles, whichever hits first, but you might need to have it changed more frequently if you drive longer distances more often than not.

Can You Change Your Oil Yourself?

You sure can, although it’s also part of the basic maintenance your vehicle should receive at most if not all scheduled intervals at our service center.

Start by checking your owner’s manual for the right type of oil, then drain the old oil completely – remember to catch it in a pan and dispose of it properly. After draining the oil, secure the cap and start adding in more. Fill slowly, checking levels periodically using the dipstick to prevent overfilling.

Every Driver Should Know the Importance of Keeping Their Engine Oil Fresh

Whether you want to find out what happens if you don’t change your oil filter (note: this is different than your engine air filter) or need to order parts, our team can help. Do you have a serious issue such as a leaking car battery? Schedule an appointment at Ryan Chevrolet service center. You can also refer to our service tips and tricks for maintenance questions like how to check your transmission fluid. Simply get in touch today for any further assistance.