When should I change my oil?

When and Why You Should Change Your Engine Oil (And What Happens If You Don’t)

Changing your engine oil regularly is one of the simplest yet most important things you can do to keep your car running smoothly. Engine oil is vital for the performance and longevity of your engine, but over time, it degrades and loses its effectiveness. In this post, we’ll explain when and why you should change your engine oil, the risks of neglecting it, and how regular oil changes can save you money in the long run.

What Does Engine Oil Do?

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine, performing several key functions:

Lubrication: It reduces friction between the moving parts of the engine, preventing wear and tear.
Cooling: It helps dissipate heat generated by the engine to avoid overheating.
Cleaning: It removes dirt, debris, and sludge from the engine, keeping it clean and efficient.
Protection: It forms a protective layer that prevents corrosion of engine components.

However, engine oil degrades over time due to heat, contaminants, and oxidation, which is why it needs to be replaced regularly.

When Should You Change Your Engine Oil?

The recommended interval for oil changes varies depending on your vehicle and driving habits:

Every 6,000 to 10,000 miles or 6 to 12 months, depending on your car’s make and model. We have never seen a vehicle that has had its oil changed too soon!
Always follow the guidelines in your vehicle’s owner manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation.
If you frequently drive in stop-start traffic, tow heavy loads, or make short trips, you may need to change your oil more often.

Many modern cars have an oil life monitor or dashboard warning light to alert you when it’s time for a change.

Why You Should Change Your Engine Oil

Fresh engine oil is essential for keeping your engine running efficiently and avoiding costly repairs. Here’s why regular oil changes are so important:

Maintains Engine Performance
- Clean oil ensures the engine runs smoothly and efficiently, improving fuel economy and performance.
Prevents Wear and Tear
- Fresh oil reduces friction and prevents premature wear on engine components, extending the life of your engine.
Improves Cooling
- Degraded oil can’t effectively dissipate heat, increasing the risk of overheating and engine damage.
Keeps Your Engine Clean
- Old oil accumulates dirt and sludge, which can clog the engine and reduce performance.
Protects Against Costly Repairs
- Regular oil changes are much cheaper than repairing or replacing a damaged engine caused by neglected maintenance.

What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?

Failing to change your oil on time can lead to serious problems, including:

Increased Wear and Tear
- Old oil loses its lubricating properties, causing increased friction and damage to engine components.
Overheating
- Degraded oil can’t regulate engine temperature, leading to overheating and potential engine failure.
Sludge Build-Up
- Contaminated oil thickens into sludge, which can block oil passages and starve the engine of lubrication.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
- An engine running on old oil will work harder, consuming more fuel and costing you money at the pump.
Engine Failure
- Over time, neglecting oil changes can result in catastrophic engine damage, requiring expensive repairs or replacement.

How Is Engine Oil Changed?

Changing your engine oil is a straightforward process, but it’s best done by a professional to ensure everything is handled correctly:

Drain the Old Oil: The old oil is drained from the sump.
Replace the Oil Filter: A new filter is fitted to ensure clean oil flows through the engine.
Add Fresh Oil: The correct type and amount of oil, as specified by the manufacturer, is added to the engine.
Check for Leaks: The mechanic ensures there are no leaks and that the oil level is correct.

Book Your Engine Oil Change Today!

Regular oil changes are vital for keeping your car running smoothly and efficiently. At The Dalby Group, we offer professional oil change services to ensure your engine stays in top condition.

📞 Call us on 01903 372937 to book your oil change service today.
📍 We’ll come to you! If you’re in Sussex, Surrey, or Hampshire, we can sort out your oil and filter change from work or home.
🌐 Learn more at www.thedalbygroup.co.uk/repair-services and schedule your appointment online.

Don’t let old oil harm your engine—contact us today to keep your car performing at its best!