An overdue oil change refers to a situation where the recommended interval for changing the Oil in a vehicle has passed without the oil being changed. This can cause issues with vehicle engines and performance. It is important to keep up with regular oil changes to ensure the proper functioning of the engine and to prevent any damage. An overdue oil change can cause a variety of symptoms and problems for your vehicle. Some of the most common signs that it’s time for an oil change include
7 most common signs that your car needs an oil change
Dark, dirty oil:
You should be the quality of your oil after some time, if the oil in your vehicle is dark and dirty, it’s a sign that it’s been in your engine for too long and needs to be replaced.
Low oil level:
Every car owner needs to check the oil manually, for this you need to check the fluid level by pulling out the dipstick. If you notice that the oil level in your vehicle is low, it’s a sign that oil is being consumed faster than it should be and that an oil change is needed.
Engine noise:
Oil helps the engine to run smoothly, so when the oil becomes older the engine makes strange noises, such as knocking or ticking, and may be in need of an oil change.
Warning light:
When you see that your engine light is glowing on your information disk, that might be a sign of an oil change. Many car owners considered it a warning light for an oil change.
Reduced fuel efficiency:
An engine that is not clean enough cannot perform well and run properly, this might be also due to dirty or low oil can also cause reduced fuel efficiency which needs to be changed.
Smoke or burning smell:
If you notice smoke or a burning smell coming from your engine, it may be a sign of overheating caused by dirty or low oil and it also needs to be changed your oil.
Vibrations when idling
When you notice abnormal vibration during the time when the car is idling, this also refers to there is need to be an oil change.
It’s important to note that the intervals of oil change vary depending on the vehicle model and mileage. It is always suggested to check the vehicle manual or consult with a mechanic to determine the best time for an oil change. Ignoring the overdue oil change can lead to serious engine problems and can even cause the engine to seize up, resulting in costly repairs or even requiring a new engine. To keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid expensive repairs, make sure to keep up with regular oil changes.
How long can I drive without an oil change?
It is not recommended to continue driving a car that needs an oil change, as driving with dirty or low oil can cause significant damage to the engine. The oil in a car helps lubricate the engine’s moving parts and cools them down, and when the oil is dirty or low, it can no longer effectively perform these functions. This can lead to increased friction and heat in the engine, which can cause the metal parts to wear down more quickly and potentially even cause the engine to seize up. It’s difficult to say exactly how long you can drive on dirty or low-oil before causing damage to the engine, as it depends on various factors such as the type of oil, the age of the car, and the driving conditions. However, most car manufacturers recommend getting an oil change every 3,000 miles or 3 months whichever comes first.
Do I need to change the oil if I don’t drive much?
You should replace your oil a few times a year even if you don’t put hundreds of miles on your car. This practice will keep the oil in your engine fresh and prevents it from deteriorating or any damage. Your engine may experience problems and perhaps suffer damage as a result of deteriorating oil. Therefore, even if you don’t drive often, you should still replace your oil every six months to keep your car healthy.
To conclude, it is not recommended to drive a car that needs an oil change as it can cause significant damage to the engine. Therefore, the function of engine oil in your car is similar to the function of blood in your body. Engine oil circulates through your car’s engine similarly to how blood circulates throughout your body, lubricating and shielding the internal parts (both big and small). However, unlike human blood, which may be used without a transfusion, your car’s performance and dependability are largely dependent on the quality of the flowing engine oil.
