Can I still drive if my car alerts me to change the oil?
4 Answers
You can still drive if your car alerts you to change the oil, but it is recommended to go to a repair shop for an oil change immediately. Generally, the rules for onboard computer alerts to change oil are based on mileage or oil usage time, which may have some margin of error. Choosing good-quality oil can make your car more durable and powerful. High-quality oil, especially fully synthetic oil, not only protects the engine but also reduces the frequency of oil changes. To check the oil level, observe whether the dipstick reading is within the normal range. The method is as follows: 1. Park the vehicle on level ground, turn off the engine, and wait for 15 minutes to allow the oil to drain back into the oil pan; 2. Remove the dipstick for the first time, wipe it clean, and slowly reinsert it, ensuring the dipstick reaches the bottom of the oil pan; 3. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. If the oil level is between the upper and lower limits on the dipstick, it is normal. If the oil level is above the upper limit, some oil needs to be drained. If the oil level is below the lower limit, the corresponding amount of oil needs to be added.
Last time my car also reminded me to change the oil. I was still on the highway at the time and thought I could drive a bit longer. After driving about 100 kilometers, the engine started making strange noises. Upon inspection, I found the oil had turned completely black and nearly damaged the engine. Professionally speaking, the oil change reminder is based on the vehicle's mileage or time settings, primarily to protect engine components from wear. If you don't change it, engine friction increases, fuel consumption rises, and while you can still drive short distances like a few dozen kilometers for city commuting, I advise against taking the risk. If the engine blows, repair costs could easily exceed tens of thousands. The best approach is to find a repair shop as soon as possible and get it changed. Don't wait until the warning light comes on to panic—safety first.
My car keeps reminding me to change the oil. I've done the math—each oil change costs just a few hundred bucks, but stretching it a few hundred kilometers more can save a bit. Honestly, it's doable; I've pushed it to around 150 kilometers without issues, provided the oil level checks out. The main job of engine oil is lubrication and cooling. If you delay changes too long, sludge can clog engine parts, leading to higher fuel consumption and repair bills in the thousands. My routine now: when the reminder pops up, I check the dipstick first. If it looks okay, I schedule the change for the weekend. But if I smell burning or hear engine knocking, I stop driving immediately. Saving money is fine, but weigh the risks—don’t wreck a major component over small savings.
When I first started driving, the car's reminder to change the oil really stressed me out, and I wasn't sure if I could still drive. I asked my friends, and they all said it's fine to drive short distances to the shop, like around ten kilometers, as the oil can still provide lubrication. But if you forget to change it for a long time, the oil will degrade and accumulate carbon deposits, which might cause issues like piston seizure, making things even more troublesome. Now I understand—after the reminder, check the oil level. If it's not low, hurry to get it changed, or else I won't feel at ease.
