Can You Still Drive When the New Car Shows an Oil Change Alert?
2 Answers
New car displaying an oil change alert should not continue to be driven. Below are the specific functions of engine oil: 1. Shock absorption and cushioning: When the pressure in the engine cylinder port rises sharply, it suddenly increases the load on the piston, piston pin, connecting rod, and crankshaft bearings. This load is transmitted and lubricated through the bearings, cushioning the impact load. 2. Rust and corrosion prevention: Lubricating oil can adhere to the surface of parts, preventing contact with water, air, acidic substances, and harmful gases. 3. Lubrication and wear reduction: There is rapid relative sliding between the piston and cylinder, as well as between the main shaft and bearing shells. To prevent excessive wear, an oil film must be established between the two sliding surfaces. A sufficiently thick oil film separates the surfaces of the relatively sliding parts, thereby reducing wear. 4. Cooling and temperature reduction: Engine oil carries heat back to the oil tank and dissipates it into the air, assisting the radiator in cooling the engine.
I've been driving for over a decade and often encounter new cars displaying maintenance reminders. When the oil change indicator lights up, it means the system has detected that the mileage or time has reached the preset maintenance value - this is the vehicle's intelligent reminder function. Although the car could theoretically keep running for a while longer, you should never push it too hard, especially with a new car that's just passed its break-in period. The manufacturer-designed first maintenance is particularly crucial to remove metal particles generated during break-in. I've seen cases where people delayed maintenance, resulting in metal powder accumulation in the oil pan, ultimately costing a fortune in engine repairs. My advice is to schedule a service appointment with the 4S dealership immediately when you see the warning, keep the RPM below 3000 while driving to the shop, and remember that early maintenance is always cheaper than engine repairs.
