How Long Can You Drive After Being Prompted to Change Engine Oil?
3 Answers
Reminder to add engine oil: You can still drive approximately 10,000 kilometers. Below are relevant details about adding engine oil to vehicles: 1. New vehicle oil change interval: Under normal driving conditions for new vehicles, if synthetic oil is used, the engine oil can generally be changed every 10,000 kilometers, with some even extending up to 20,000 kilometers. 2. Functions of engine oil: Engine oil is to a car what blood is to the human body, with the engine serving as the car's heart. Operating under extreme conditions, engine oil performs crucial roles in lubricating, cooling, and cleaning contaminants generated by engine friction, ensuring normal operation and prolonging the engine's lifespan. Therefore, engine oil plays a vital role in maintaining normal engine operation and extending its service life.
Let me tell you, never delay changing your engine oil when it's due, or your engine will be done for. You see, when oil expires, its viscosity decreases, lubrication becomes insufficient, internal engine parts experience increased friction and severe wear. You might drive fine for a few days, but if you're constantly on highways, the risk is extremely high. I know an old-timer who stubbornly drove 200 kilometers before his engine started knocking, fuel consumption skyrocketed, and he had to replace the entire cylinder head at the repair shop, costing over 8,000 yuan. A regular oil change only costs a few hundred. I recommend not exceeding 100 kilometers—change the oil immediately, safety first. Make it a habit to check your oil regularly; top it up if the level is low, but a complete oil change is the real solution. If you notice anything unusual on the road, like loud noises or the oil light coming on, pull over immediately and call a tow truck—don't push your luck.
After driving for so many years, I've realized that pushing your luck with overdue oil changes is a terrible idea. I remember once when my car signaled it was time for an oil change, but I still took a short trip of about 150 kilometers round trip. When I got back, the engine sounded rougher, like sandpaper grinding, and fuel consumption had increased. The mechanic later told me there was significant carbon buildup inside, which nearly damaged the pistons. Generally speaking, if the oil light isn't on and it's just a reminder, you might get away with delaying for a couple of days or driving about 100 kilometers, but avoid highways or long distances. Driving around town might be manageable, but the risk is always there. It's best to schedule an oil change as soon as possible after the reminder—don't try to save small money only to lose big. Engine repairs can be extremely expensive, costing at least several thousand. Make it a habit to check your oil condition regularly to keep your car in good health.
