Can I still drive if the vehicle prompts for an oil change?
4 Answers
You can still drive if the vehicle prompts for an oil change, but you should arrange for a replacement as soon as possible. During the warranty period required by the vehicle manufacturer, failure to perform timely maintenance may affect the vehicle warranty if engine issues arise. Expired oil has adverse effects on engine operation. Oil has certain oxidation and water absorption properties, and over time, it can accumulate moisture, leading to oil degradation and a decline in its corresponding performance. Oil is the lubricant for the engine, serving functions such as lubricating friction surfaces, assisting in cooling, sealing against leaks, preventing rust and corrosion, and providing shock absorption. Under the high-speed operation, high-temperature, and high-pressure working conditions of the engine, regular oil changes are necessary. The replacement cycle varies depending on the quality of the oil.
When your car alerts you to change the oil, it's like a little warning saying the engine's protective shield is about to give out. I can understand many people might think, 'A few more days won't hurt, right?' But from a safety perspective, this is definitely a red light. The role of engine oil is to lubricate engine components and prevent overheating from friction. Once it gets dirty or old, increased friction can cause the engine temperature to skyrocket—at best, fuel consumption rises; at worst, the engine seizes up and is ruined. Short trips like driving to the repair shop might be okay, keeping it within a few dozen kilometers, but avoid high speeds or prolonged driving. I remember once at a repair shop seeing a car whose owner ignored the warning, resulting in an engine overhaul costing tens of thousands. Don't take big risks to save time or a little money—schedule an oil change as soon as possible.
When the oil change reminder light comes on, I always weigh the economic pros and cons. While driving a few more days might seem feasible, the consequences outweigh the benefits: old oil increases friction, reduces engine efficiency, and may raise fuel consumption by 5% per kilometer—adding up to significant extra fuel costs over a year. Worse yet, delaying maintenance can cause internal engine wear, leading to repairs starting at thousands, far exceeding the cost of an oil change (typically a few hundred yuan). From a cost perspective, immediate action is advised: check the dipstick for adequate oil level and dark coloration. If driving is unavoidable, opt for short, direct routes like commutes or trips to a service center. Developing a routine oil change habit enhances vehicle longevity, saving repair costs and extending its service life by years.
My experience is: when you see the oil change reminder, don't panic immediately, but don't ignore it either. Engine oil is like the lubricant for your engine, and it loses effectiveness when degraded. Short trips to work or the repair shop should be fine—I once drove for a week without major issues, but every car's condition is different. The risk is accumulated wear and tear; suddenly stalling on the road would be a big hassle. It's best to schedule a change as soon as possible. First, check if the oil level is normal—if it's transparent, it's still okay, but if it's thick, change it quickly. Don't ignore this signal; it keeps you and your car safe.
