How long would a car run without getting an oil change?
You surely have other significant things like the car’s transmission and brakes to worry about, but engine oil must not fall to the end of the list. It is one of the many hassles that a car owner faces, but it is a crucial to keep your car in proper condition. Frequency in changing the oil can depend on how you use the vehicle, but what matters the most is that you are changing and not running the car without a lubricant. Oil change specialists have set a standard limit over which the vehicle needs your attention. And this is all that you need to know:
Can your car survive without an oil change?
Oil change specialists usually suggest changing the engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. The engine runs efficiently, allowing you to save money and travel for long. After all these, on-the-road miles, your engine collects trash that settles in the oil. Too much of dirt and debris starts clogging the parts, and this trash eventually forms into sludge. So, a few more thousand miles will not kill your engine; however, it may slow down its functionality.
But first, let us understand why cars need an oil change?
It maintains lubrication.
Just imagine all the engine parts working on running the vehicle at a high rate of speed, creating heat, and also wearing down over time. These essentials working under the hood of a car cannot function well if lubrication isn’t taken care of. The condition will drastically bring down the vehicle’s efficiency in the absence of lubrication. So, make sure you keep it filled at the recommended volume. For this, you can refer to the vehicle’s manual that comes along and know what quality or weight of the oil you can use.
You can also contact a trusted auto repair service provider in your region if you are unsure which oil to use or how you must change it. The oil change specialist will further guide you on the process.
It keeps the engine components cooler.
Moving parts create friction if there is a lack of proper lubrication. This, in turn, leads to the production of excessive heat. So, a sufficient amount of engine oil is necessary to prevent overheating as well as friction.
It improves gas mileage.
When the engine is well lubricated, it reduces fuel consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, refilling cleaner oil can increase gas mileage by up to 2%. It might not sound like a significant number, but it can lead to ample savings for an average car.
It removes sludge.
The engine cannot work efficiently with sludge and dust particles – these are deadly and corrosive agents. Over time, these particles deteriorate the life of your engine, and the oil breaks down into sludge. Thus, routine oil changes keep the engine in a healthy and working condition.
It promotes the longevity of the vehicle.
No rocket science – take care of the routine maintenance and your vehicle will thank you for it. If the car is free from any toxic buildup, the internal components stay intact. Plus, the engine does not have to work hard, which increases its life span.
The reasons mentioned above specify why you must not drive your car without regularly changing the oil.
Coming back, how long can your car go without an oil change?
Your engine will run smoothly even if you do not change the oil too often or if you run the vehicle over the set limit.
If your engine can tolerate, it will take your vehicle anywhere between 5,000 to 6,000 miles. Depending upon the age of your car, your engine can even go up to 10,000 miles. Running the vehicle without an oil change will not be as dangerous as running it entirely without the oil.
Most cars also signal when they need an oil change. Often, it is the Check Oil light, which starts indicating that your vehicle must now go to a professional auto repair service provider or an oil change specialist. Several car manuals recommend that you take your vehicle for regular maintenance after 5,000 to 7,500 miles so that it can enhance the vehicle’s life. However, it also depends on your driving habits that will make the car more or less prone to frequent repair or maintenance.
Some professionals suggest that you change the oil in about 3,000 miles, no matter if it is new or old. To be honest, engine oil at this level can still take your vehicle far away. And, changing the oil so frequently does nothing for the vehicle’s efficiency. Rather, it is about wasting your money since the oil at 3,000 miles is still as good as new and usable up to 5,000 miles. Throwing away the oil so often is merely bad for the environment.
Need a professional vehicle maintenance service?
The best and most experienced auto repair service provider will maintain professionalism in every aspect and make use of the highest quality products for your vehicle. If you are particularly looking for an oil change specialist or a general vehicle maintenance provider, Aloha Auto Repair in Texas can be your top choice. We are certified to repair all kinds of domestic as well as foreign cars. If you need anything done for the vehicle – Aloha Auto Repair will take care of it. Stop by or call us for any service-related queries.
