Car manufacturers recommend specific intervals for a reason – engine oil plays a vital role in keeping your car’s heart, the engine, healthy and running smoothly. In this blog, we will delve into what can happen when you don’t adhere to the recommended oil change intervals or neglect changing your motor oil altogether. From increased wear and tear to voided warranties, we’ll explore the consequences of ignoring this essential maintenance task.
- Over-Heated Engine: Your car’s cooling system alone can’t do all the work. Engine oil also plays a crucial role in maintaining the engine’s temperature. As engine oil ages, it becomes thicker due to exposure to high temperatures. This thermal breakdown prevents it from effectively absorbing heat. An overheated engine can lead to blown gaskets, worn-out parts, and warping, all of which can be costly to repair.
- Wear of Components: Your car’s engine is a complex system with numerous moving parts, such as pistons and valves. Engine oil’s primary job is to reduce friction and protect these components. Over time, the lubricating properties of engine oil degrade, leaving vital engine parts vulnerable to friction. This can lead to wear and damage, ultimately affecting your car’s performance and lifespan.
- Dirt Build up: In addition to lubrication and cooling, engine oil also acts as a cleaner for the engine’s interior. It removes tiny particles and debris that accumulate over time. When neglected, this dirt can build up and clog the oil channels, significantly reducing the engine’s lifespan. The engine will also have to work harder, resulting in a loss of power. Old, unchanged oil can turn into sludge, preventing it from reaching crucial engine components, potentially causing severe damage that requires engine replacement.
- Increased Fuel Consumption: As aged engine oil thickens and turns into sludge, your engine has to work harder to function correctly. This means it requires more fuel to produce the same amount of power, resulting in a 1% to 2% increase in fuel consumption. Additionally, old engine oil that burns can emit toxic smoke into the environment, contributing to pollution.
- Voided Car Warranty: Car manufacturers provide warranties based on the assumption that you will follow their recommended maintenance schedule. Neglecting oil changes and other essential maintenance tasks can void your car’s warranty. If your engine suffers damage, you may face high repair costs that won’t be reimbursed by the manufacturer.
Changing your engine oil at the recommended intervals and replacing the oil filter is a small investment that can save you from significant expenses and headaches in the long run. High-quality engine oil, changed regularly, allows your car to perform at its best while extending its lifespan. Keep in mind that engine oil is one of the most critical fluids your car needs, so choose stick to your service provider’s recommendations. By doing so, you’ll ensure your car remains in peak condition and avoid the potentially costly consequences of neglecting your engine’s health.
