Why changing your oil is essential
- Lubrication:Fresh oil reduces friction between moving engine parts, preventing them from grinding against each other. As oil breaks down, it can’t lubricate effectively, leading to wear and tear.
- Cooling:Oil absorbs and dissipates heat from the engine. Old or dirty oil is less effective at cooling, which can cause the engine to overheat.
- Cleaning:Engine oil contains dispersants that keep dirt, metal shavings, and other contaminants suspended. Over time, the oil becomes saturated and the filter gets clogged, and these impurities can cause sludge buildup and damage engine components.
- Protection:New oil contains additives that protect against corrosion. As oil ages, these additives break down.
Consequences of not changing your oil
- Increased engine wear:Without proper lubrication, metal parts will create friction, which can lead to irreversible damage.
- Sludge buildup:Contaminated oil can lead to thick sludge that can clog oil passages and damage the engine.
- Overheating:The engine may not be able to cool down properly, leading to potential engine damage.
- Reduced fuel efficiency:An engine working harder due to dirty oil will consume more fuel.
- Engine failure:In the long run, failing to change your oil can lead to a complete engine failure, a very costly repair.
