What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?

Auto Mechanic Checking Oil

 

When you own a vehicle in Idaho Falls, if you’d like to keep it up and running for the long haul, it’s important to follow the vehicle’s maintenance schedule. Here at Sayer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram service center, our customers often want to know what happens if you don’t change your oil. As you drive throughout Blackfoot, your oil will gradually break down, becoming less effective at lubricating your engine’s moving parts. As a result, this increases friction and can lead to an increase in temperature. When your engine gets too hot, serious damage can occur such as wear and tear and even warped components. Read on to learn more about why it’s crucial to get regular oil changes. 

What is the Purpose of Motor Oil

Motor oil lubricates your car’s engine. More precisely, oil has the following important roles in Pocatello vehicles:

  • Reduces wear and tear on moving parts due to friction.
  • Motor oil with dispersants cleans sludge from the engine.
  • Detergents in motor oil help clean varnish from the engine.
  • When changed regularly, motor oil can help neutralize acids that form from fuels, improve piston ring seals, and cool the engine by moving heat away

How Often Should You Change Your Oil? 

Experts used to recommend changing your oil every 3,000 miles, but nowadays most drivers can go about 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes. However, these figures will vary depending on your driving habits and the specific vehicle you drive. For example, if you frequently drive long distances, you may need to get oil changes more frequently. 

How Do I Change the Oil Myself?

Learning how to check car oil yourself is a fairly simple process. To begin, you’ll need to check your owner’s manual to determine what type of oil your vehicle requires. Once you have this information, follow the steps below:

  1. Jack your car up with jack stands or steel ramps.
  2. Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of your oil pan underneath your engine. Place an oil basin directly underneath the plug, then unscrew the plug and allow the old oil to drain out completely – this may take up to 15 minutes. Once all of the oil has drained, you can replace the plug.
  3. Locate your oil filter, and remove it with an oil filter wrench. A bit of extra oil may drain out when you remove the filter so be sure to keep the basin underneath to catch it. 
  4. Grab your new filter and rub a bit of oil around the rubber seal. This ensures your filter is watertight and is an essential step. 
  5. Set the new filter in place, then tighten it by hand
  6. Now that your old oil is completely drained and a new filter is in place, you can remove your oil cap. Pour in the specified amount of new oil, which you can find in your owner’s manual if you’re unsure. Finally, replace the oil cap.
  7. Before you call it a job well done, you should check your oil level by pulling out the dipstick. If you’re still low, you may add another ounce and check the level again. Once you get a proper oil level reading, you’re good to go!

Visit Sayer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram: Your Oil Change Service Experts 

Now that you know what happens if you don’t get your oil changed, you’re much better equipped to keep your car in mint condition. Is your vehicle due for an oil change? If so, simply schedule an appointment at our Idaho Falls service center! Also, be sure to check out our service specials to find great deals on routine vehicle services like oil changes.

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