Categories: Car Maintenance

Skipping Oil Changes Can Affect Your Vehicle’s Health

How Long Can I Go Without an Oil Change?

Oil changes may seem like they’re a hassle and come up too frequently, but they are essential to keeping your vehicle in good health. Going too long without an oil change or skipping them all together can cut the life of your vehicle short and cost you a lot of money. But how long can you go without an oil change before it’s too late? Keep reading to find out.

Why Do I Need to Change My Vehicle’s Oil?

Your vehicle relies on oil to keep everything running smoothly and to prevent complications. The oil in your vehicle’s engine keeps all the moving parts lubricated and moving properly. A vehicle’s oil also absorbs by-products in the engine and reduces friction to keep your vehicle from overheating. If the oil level gets too low or it gets too old it is unable to perform these duties, which is why it is key to stay on top of routine oil maintenance.

What Happens If I Skip an Oil Change?

When you skip an oil change or go too long without one, the oil in your vehicle is unable to properly move through your engine. Skipping an oil change leads to the vehicle’s oil thinning over time and catching a buildup of metal, dirt, and other particles. Over time the oil will become abrasive and wear down on vital engine parts.

It is crucial to follow a maintenance schedule that fits both your vehicle needs and your driving style. If you take frequent short trips more often than longer highway drives, you will need to get your oil changed sooner rather than later. A suggested maintenance schedule should be included in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, otherwise speaking with a local mechanic can give you insight on how frequently you should take your vehicle in for an oil change.

Sticking to a routine schedule and understanding how long you can go without an oil change will help keep your vehicle running longer and keep you safe behind the wheel. If you are looking to get behind the wheel of your next vehicle, check out our online inventory and schedule a test drive today.