The Consequences Of An Oil Change Delay

An oil change is an important maintenance task for your car. Although it is also the most simple task and the least expensive, most people put this tasks off for thousands of miles. If you choose to skip it, you run the risk of seriously damaging your car. There are many consequences when you don't change out the oil and oil filter in your car.

To understand the importance of an oil change, it's also important to know how oil functions in your car. Clean oil is the lubricant that helps engine parts work effectively and efficiently. As it lubricates, it keeps the engine from getting over heated by keeping working parts moving smoothly. It also works to keep the engine clean so that no gunk builds up between the working parts.

When you don't get an oil change you run the risk of damaging your engine. Your engine is one of the most expensive systems to repair or replace and often serious damage is irreversible and you won't be able to save your car. It doesn't matter if it's a newer car or an older car, either. You can total a car that's been driven under 10,000 miles if you don't get your oil changed when necessary.

It's important to have enough oil in your car to lubricate the parts of the engine. When they are not lubricated, they will grind up against each other and start to shave down. This will make the engine hot and break down small working parts. When an overheated engine breaks down, you may not be able to salvage the engine. It will be too difficult to replace that many working parts.

You also need clean oil to keep the engine from getting too dirty. As the oil glides over the working parts, it also keeps the spaces between the working parts clean and running efficiently. When your oil isn't clean, dirt and grime will build up and keep your engine from working efficiently. Putting more effort on the engine will also stress out working parts and put you at risk of damage.

A good metaphor to think about when debating on whether to put off your next oil change is considering the engine the heart of your car and the oil the blood. You need enough blood in your body to keep the whole system working effectively and efficiently. Put too much stress on the heart and the body breaks down. A seized engine is just like a heart attack. If you consider the consequences of what a delayed oil change can cause, you may find yourself scheduling your next appointment months in advance! Keep these risks in mind and maintain your car responsibly through regular inspections and repairs.