What Happens If You Don't Change Your Oil?

It’s well-established that regular oil changes are a necessary part of routine maintenance, but what happens if you don’t get your oil changed ever? The results are not pretty! The effect of old oil in your car only gets worse over time, and you could experience everything from a noisy ride to a complete engine malfunction. Learn why oil changes are so valuable for your vehicle, and get more service tips with our team in Medina!

What Does an Oil Change Do?

Motor oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine. As it flows, this fluid lubricates all of the moving pieces and helps to bring down the temperature. Fresh oil is thinner and moves easily throughout the engine, but over time, it becomes thicker with debris. Regular oil changes provide a reset, draining the old oil out and replenishing your supply with fresh oil. Most experts recommend scheduling an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or so. But whether it’s a busy life or a lack of motivation, many Cleveland drivers find themselves pushing off necessary maintenance. Let’s dive deeper into the effects of old oil on your car.

What Happens If You Drive a Car with Old Oil?

So, what happens if you don’t get your oil changed when you should? The consequences don’t appear overnight, but the effects of old oil on your car build over time. Before you know it, you could be experiencing anything from loud noises to complete engine failure on the Strongsville roads. Here are just some of the problems that result from old oil:

• Contamination: Fresh oil is clear and flows easily, but it picks up dust and sediment over time. This thickens and dirties the oil, which means it struggles to flow through the engine properly.
• Excess Noise: When your oil can’t keep up with your engine, your components will suffer. You may hear strange noises under the hood resulting from engine strain, and that’s usually just the beginning.
• Engine Overheating: Your engine works hard, and the rapid movement of the pistons and other components generates a huge amount of friction. Without the cooling effects of motor oil, your engine can become damaged from overheating.
• Voided Warranty: If there’s proof that you didn’t follow the recommended maintenance schedule, there’s a chance that your warranty coverage will be affected. So an inexpensive oil change can save you money in the long run.

Schedule Your Next Service at Ken Ganley Kia Medina

The good news is that an oil change is a fast and easy service that can keep your car running like a dream, and the team at Ken Ganley Kia Medina is here to help. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of an oil change, and schedule your next service in Medina. We’re just a short drive from Brunswick, and we offer rotating service specials to make maintenance affordable for every driver!