What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?

When life gets full and hectic, simple tasks tend to get put on the back burner. While this is a natural reality, critical car care like oil changes should remain a priority. Here at Suntrup Automotive Group, when you work with any of our service centers, you’ll find reliable and expeditious care to make servicing your vehicle a breeze. So, what happens if you don’t change your oil? Well, over time, your oil breaks down and becomes less effective at lubricating the moving parts in your engine. 

When your oil loses its efficacy, friction will increase, and the temperature inside your engine will rise. When your engine gets too hot, serious damage can occur. Driving with an overheating engine on your commute from St. Louis to St. Charles may lead to a breakdown and even warped components inside the engine. Trust us, it’s better to avoid finding out firsthand what happens if you don’t get your oil changed. Read on below with our service team to learn more about the role of engine oil, the importance of routine oil changes, and what happens if you don’t change your oil.

What Does Motor Oil Do?

Now that we’ve touched on what happens if you don’t get your oil changed, let’s discuss the important role engine oil plays as you travel through Fenton:

• The main function of oil is to reduce wear and tear caused by friction.
• Motor oil with dispersants works to clean sludge from the engine.
• Detergents within motor oil can also help clean varnish from the engine.
• When routinely changed, motor oil can neutralize acids that form from fuels, improve piston ring seals, and cool the engine by removing heat.

How Often Should I Change My Vehicle’s Oil?

In the past, you were likely advised to get an oil change every 3,000 miles, however, that’s no longer necessary. So, how often should you get an oil change? Typically, an oil change once every 7,500 to 10,000 miles is appropriate. It’s important to note that your specific vehicle and individual driving habits will impact how often you should change your oil.

How Do I Change the Oil Myself?

If you have a penchant for DIY projects, learning to change your oil is relatively easy. Once you have the proper grade of oil, follow these steps:

1. Elevate your car with jack stands or steel ramps.
2. Find the oil drain plug on the bottom of your oil pan under the engine. Place your oil basin directly beneath the plug. Unscrew the plug and allow the old oil to completely drain, which can take up to 15 minutes. When you’re certain the oil has drained, replace the plug. 
3. Remove your old filter with an oil filter wrench. You can expect a bit of extra oil to drain at this point, so keep your basin underneath to catch it. 
4. Rub a bit of oil around the rubber seal of your new filter to ensure it’s watertight. 
5. Tighten the new filter by hand.
6. Remove your oil cap and add the specified amount of new oil. You can find that information in your owner’s manual. Replace the oil cap.
7. Before you clean up, check your oil volume by removing the dipstick. If you’re still low, slowly add more oil until the level is sufficient. 

Turn to Suntrup Automotive Group for Car Care

Now that you’re well aware of what happens if you don’t get your oil changed, you’re equipped to care for your vehicle. While changing your oil is possible, you may prefer to let our experts handle the task. Explore our service specials for added savings before you visit. As always, contact us with any questions or concerns.