Can I still drive if the car shows an oil change reminder?
3 Answers
You should not drive if the car shows an oil change reminder. Below is additional information about oil changes: Effects: Engine oil serves functions such as lubrication, cooling, cleaning, sealing, and rust prevention. When the oil change reminder appears, it indicates that these functions have diminished after a certain period of usage. If lubrication and cooling functions decline and the oil is not changed promptly, continued use can damage the engine. This reduces its lifespan, increases the likelihood of issues, and raises repair costs. Precautions: The oil viscosity must be appropriate. Different grades of engine oil have distinct characteristics, affecting cold-start performance and high-temperature wear resistance and adhesion. Oil viscosity is inversely related to temperature. When the engine is cold, the oil viscosity is higher. If the oil is too thick, it can impose additional strain on components like the starter motor and battery.
I recently got an oil change reminder on my car for the first time, and it freaked me out a bit. After some research, I learned that engine oil is responsible for lubricating and cooling the engine, preventing overheating and damage from friction between parts. If the light comes on, it means the oil is either expired or insufficient. You can usually drive a short distance—like to a nearby repair shop or back home—but definitely avoid long trips or highways. Otherwise, severe engine wear could occur, leading to expensive repairs costing thousands. My advice: first pop the hood and check the oil dipstick to assess the oil level and color. If it's too dark or low, add a bit of temporary oil as a stopgap. Ideally, follow the manual's recommendation for regular oil changes every 5,000 to 8,000 km—don't wait until the light comes on. I've made it a habit to do a quick check every month. Neglecting this small thing can turn into a big problem—safety first!
Having driven for over a decade, I've dealt with countless oil change reminders. Of course you can still drive at this point, but only for short distances—like going to the repair shop or commuting to work—keeping it under 100 kilometers. As engine oil degrades, its lubricating ability decreases, leading to louder engine noise and potentially higher fuel consumption. Checking is simple: after parking and turning off the engine, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check the level. If it's too low, add new oil immediately or schedule a change. The key is not to ignore it; prolonged neglect can damage internal engine components, causing repair costs to skyrocket. I recommend taking care of it over the weekend to maintain your vehicle's health. Always pay attention to dashboard warning lights while driving. Keeping track of mileage for regular maintenance is the most hassle-free approach.
