What happens when you skip an oil change?

Thank you for visiting the Chapel Hill Tire blog. Today's post answers a question we hear quite often: "What happens when you don't change your oil?"

We know that life can be hectic and it's hard to prioritize all the "necessary things". Terms of work. Family responsibilities. Dental appointments. Home service. (Did I forget to change the oven filter?)

When you can't keep all your eggs up in the air, is it really that bad to wait a few more months to change your oil?

Even if you're not mechanically savvy, you probably suspect that postponing your regular scheduled oil change is not a good idea. Let's find out why.

What happens when you don't change your oil?

First, let's discuss what oil does in your engine. You may have heard that "oil is the blood of your engine". This is not hyperbole; Your engine could not run without oil.

Continuing the analogy with blood, oil, like blood, circulates in the engine. This allows the parts to perform their specific functions. He brings the necessary substances to the details. This allows the entire system to work in harmony.

The most important thing that oil does is provide lubrication. When parts are not lubricated, they heat up. Too much heat is a problem.

What happens when metal rubs against metal without oil to lubricate and dissipate heat? It's not beautiful. Eventually, the parts are melted and welded together. This is called union. In the engine, this is called jamming. If you think this sounds expensive, you are right. You may need to replace the entire engine. Ka-ching!

Why should I change the oil if there is enough? Can't I just add more?

We have now established why oil is critical. Your engine cannot run without it. But why change it periodically if there is enough of it? Can't you just add more?

As oil travels through your engine, it travels through thousands of parts. It collects metal fragments, sand and dirt. He also collects soot. (Hence the combustion part of internal combustion.)

Your oil filter does an excellent job of trapping these particles. This allows your engine to run thousands of miles between oil changes. However, over time, the filter becomes clogged with debris. Reaching the end of its service life. Just like the oven filter mentioned earlier.

Motor oils contain additives that improve their performance. When the oil becomes contaminated, it also compromises the additives. These include anti-corrosion agents and anti-foam compounds. These additives also do not have an unlimited lifespan.

How often do you need to change the oil?

Many North Carolina drivers do not understand this issue. Automakers' recommendations vary, but most agree that the old rule of every 3,000 miles does not apply to new cars. This is due to the improvement of materials and production.

Consult your owner's manual for service interval recommendations for a more accurate oil change schedule. While you're at it, check what type of oil is recommended for your vehicle. The key is to use the correct type of oil. Your manufacturer may recommend synthetic oil. It is important to follow the recommendations. Using the wrong type can damage your engine. At the very least, this may void your warranty.

What are the benefits of changing the oil on time?

• This will keep your engine clean and extend its life.
• You will prevent unnecessary engine damage.
• You will get better fuel economy
• You will pass the emission test
• Your car will not pollute the environment (pat yourself on the back for caring for the environment)
• Your machine will perform better
• You protect your investment
• You can prevent more costly damage

There may be something going on with your car that requires more frequent service. Even if you've recently changed your oil, don't ignore the warning signs. They may indicate fluid problems or something else. You may have a leak.

What are the warning signs that my oil needs to be changed?

• Ticking or pounding sounds
• Oil pressure indicator
• Oil level indicator
• Check the engine light (this can also indicate a number of other problems)
• You test your oil the old fashioned way and it looks like thick Coke.
• A little reminder sticker on your window
• Changing vehicle characteristics
• You can't remember the last time you changed it

Let the Chapel Hill Tire team keep you updated

In addition to engine oil, you need to change all other fluids in your car. That's a lot to keep track of. Check out our oil change services or call us to speak with a service consultant at Chapel Hill Tire. We will be happy to draw up a maintenance schedule. Let's worry about oil viscosity and service intervals.

This is another way to make life easier for our valued customers.

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