What Happens if You Don’t Change Your Oil?

mechanic working in the hood of a car

A car’s engine can’t function without oil, and regular oil changes are an essential part of vehicle maintenance. Neglecting them can cause severe damage to your vehicle’s long-term health. But what happens if you don’t change your oil? At Big Chief Tire, we’re here to help you understand overdue oil change symptoms and get back on the road safely.

What happens if you don’t change your oil?

Neglecting to change your oil can lead to a variety of serious issues. Over time, oil becomes dirty and loses its ability to lubricate your car’s engine properly. This can result in increased friction, which may cause your engine components to wear down prematurely. 

If left unchanged, the oil may turn into sludge, clogging oil passages and leading to engine overheating, poor performance, and eventually, complete engine failure.

When should you change your motor oil?

Knowing when it’s time to change your car’s motor oil is crucial for maintaining the health of your engine. First, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific guidelines on oil change intervals as recommended by the manufacturer.

Modern cars are often programmed to provide service reminders that notify you when it’s time for an oil change. Don’t rely solely on the past performance of your car to determine when to get an oil change — it’s important to pay attention to these signals to stay on top of your vehicle’s oil levels.

You should also take a few minutes to inspect the oil dipstick to ensure it’s within the appropriate range. If it’s low or looks dirty, it’s time for an oil change. Factors such as driving conditions, mileage, and the type of oil used can vary, so always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

How often should you change your oil?

Determining how often your vehicle needs an oil change can be difficult, as it depends on many factors. Many manufacturers suggest oil-change intervals at 7,500 or even 10,000 miles, along with timeframes of six or twelve months. 

However, it’s important to note that these recommendations may not be suitable for all driving conditions. The technicians at Big Chief Tire recommend scheduling an oil change appointment every 3,000 to 7,000 miles. This range is a general guideline that can be followed if you’re unsure about the specific recommendations for your vehicle.

Overdue Oil Change Symptoms

If you’ve neglected to change your oil, you might notice some warning signs indicating that your engine is in trouble. These include:

Unusual Engine Noises

Tapping or knocking sounds may signal that your oil is too old or low, and engine components are grinding against each other.

Burnt Oil Smell

A burning odor inside your car might indicate that your oil is so degraded it’s overheating the engine.

Dashboard Warning Lights

The oil change or check engine light might illuminate, indicating it’s time for an oil change.

Decreased Performance

If your car is sluggish, experiences reduced fuel efficiency, or has trouble accelerating, your engine oil might be the culprit.

How long does an oil change take?

Regular oil changes are essential in maintaining your vehicle’s health, but how long does an oil change take? At Big Chief Tire, we understand the importance of your time. On average, an oil change at one of our five service centers takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. 

Our experienced technicians also go the extra mile with our virtual diagnostic tour, conducting a comprehensive examination of your vehicle inside and out to provide a detailed overview of its condition.

What’s the right oil for your car?

Choosing the right type of oil for your car is crucial to extending the lifetime of your engine. Before your next oil change, consider these tips:

Consult Your Car’s Manual

Your vehicle’s manufacturer has carefully tested and selected the oil that best suits your engine. Always refer to your car’s manual to find the recommended type of oil for your specific make or model for optimal results and performance.

Don’t Get Creative

Don’t experiment with different engine oil choices. Stick to manufacturer recommendations – they have invested many resources to develop your engine and selected the recommended oil for a reason. 

Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil

Whether you need a conventional or full synthetic oil change depends on your manufacturer’s recommendations. While synthetic oil may offer advantages like improved performance or extended drain intervals, it’s optional if your manufacturer doesn’t require it.

Oil Change Services in Jacksonville, FL 

At Big Chief Tire, our experienced technicians are here to assist you with any questions or concerns regarding oil changes and other car repair services in Jacksonville, FL. Schedule an appointment today to keep your engine running smoothly.

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