Can I still drive if the car shows 'change oil immediately'?
2 Answers
You can still drive when the vehicle displays 'change oil immediately'. The reason for the immediate oil change is that the insufficient oil level reduces the oil pump's output, leading to a drop in oil pressure. The functions of car engine oil are: 1. Reduce friction and damage between moving parts; 2. Absorb heat generated in the engine combustion chamber and piston top, cooling the engine and protecting it from overheating; 3. Prevent pollutants and oxide impurities produced during combustion from adhering to the engine interior, keeping it clean; 4. Neutralize acidic substances generated by combustion gases, preventing engine rust and corrosion. Signs that indicate the need for an oil change include: 1. Checking the oil viscosity—if there is no viscosity, the oil needs to be changed; 2. The oil color turns black; 3. Excessive black particles, metal shavings, or carbon deposits in the oil; 4. The smell of the oil is off.
I once encountered a situation where the car displayed an immediate oil change warning. At that time, I continued driving for a few hundred kilometers, which resulted in extremely loud engine noise. When I took it for repairs, slight internal wear was discovered, and the repair costs were much higher than I expected. Engine oil is used to lubricate and cool engine components. If not replaced promptly when it reaches the end of its lifespan, friction during engine operation increases, potentially leading to overheating or permanent damage. Although you can drive short distances after the warning light comes on—such as to a nearby repair shop—avoid long-distance travel or high-speed driving. I remember one emergency situation where I checked the oil dipstick before driving to ensure there was enough oil, then carefully drove to the workshop. It’s best to schedule service as soon as possible. If you must drive, maintain low speeds, reduce load, and monitor the dashboard closely during the trip. In short, act promptly to protect your vehicle and avoid bigger problems.
