How Long Can You Go Without Oil?
As you’re on the roads of Chicago, Skokie, Park Ridge, and Forest Park, IL, you may be thinking about everything else going on in the world or in your life. You might not be thinking about your car, assuming it’s ready to get you to your destination.
You may want to ask yourself, however, if it’s time for an oil change. How long can you go without oil? While that will depend on the way you drive and the type of oil your car uses, generally speaking, it’s about 5,000 miles. We’re taking a closer look at oil changes and why it’s important to change the oil (and oil filter) in your car.
How Often Do I Need an Oil Change?
How long can one go without an oil change? If you drive an older vehicle, perhaps one that was even manufactured in the early 2000s, and it is high in the mileage, you’ll be at the lower end of the spectrum–around 3,000 miles. This will best ensure that your engine is getting the attention it deserves as the vehicle ages.
However, vehicles manufactured in the last few years can go 10,000 miles between oil changes, or even more in some cases. That’s because many of the models built today run on synthetic oil, which lasts longer than traditional oil. For cars manufactured in the last few years that do not require synthetic oil, look to have an oil change completed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
Of course, your driving habits do play a role. If you’re often in stop-and-go traffic or hit the brakes a lot, the oil will need to be changed more often. Bring your vehicle to our service center for a look at the oil.
What Happens When I Don’t Change the Oil?
The oil does more than you may think. It keeps your vehicle running smoothly, but also lubricates the engine and helps keep heat away from the engine itself. As the oil is circulating through the engine, it’s lubricating all the parts and key components that make your engine tick.
Oil will pick up dirt and small pieces of debris over time, which can lead to a buildup of sludge. If you don’t change your oil for, let’s say 30,000 miles, you’re risking opening the hood and finding a sludgy buildup.
This can lead to engine issues, a decrease in vehicle performance, and waning fuel economy numbers. Eventually, it’s possible the entire engine could shut down if the oil isn’t changed.
Make sure this doesn’t happen–schedule an oil change with our knowledgeable service team as soon as possible if you can’t remember the last time you had one!
Stop by for an Efficient Oil Change
Our goal is to perform an oil change for Chicago and Skokie drivers and get you back on the roads as soon as possible.
If it’s time for your Park Ridge or Forest Park oil change, let us know. We’ll be happy to provide it at Marino Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram.
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