How many kilometers can a car run without engine oil?

[LeElliana]

If the engine is out of oil, it can idle for about half an hour at low speed; if driven on the road, it can run for a maximum of 15-20 minutes. Additional information: 1. Due to the high-speed operation of the car engine, the friction movement between the internal pistons and other metal components can reach working temperatures of 400°C to 600°C. Without oil lubrication, friction between parts will occur, and effective cooling will be lacking; 2. If the car engine runs without oil for a few more minutes, phenomena such as bearing seizure and cylinder scoring may occur due to excessive temperature. Running slightly longer can even lead to cylinder seizure or explosion, resulting in engine failure.

[DiJaxson]

Last time, my neighbor Lao Zhang's car had an oil leak that went unnoticed. He drove less than 10 kilometers before the engine started smoking. When it was towed to the repair shop, they found the connecting rod had seized. The mechanic explained that all the engine components rely on oil for lubrication and cooling. Once the oil pan is empty, the metal parts grind directly against each other like sandpaper. I always make a habit of popping the hood to check the dipstick before driving, and this routine can save tens of thousands in repair costs. Especially before long trips in summer, it's crucial to check because high temperatures can cause the remaining oil to evaporate faster. If the dashboard warning light comes on while driving, don't push it—pull over immediately, turn off the engine, and call a tow truck. Actually, the safest approach is to keep a spare bottle of oil in the trunk for emergencies.

[McDaisy]

An engine without oil is like a person without blood - it won't take many kilometers before serious trouble occurs. The most extreme case I've seen was a novice driver running on the highway for 20 minutes, resulting in complete engine failure. The heat generated by dry friction between pistons and cylinder walls can reach thousands of degrees - first you hear metallic screeching, then blue smoke appears, and finally it completely seizes up. Well-maintained vehicles might last 3-5 km, while older cars could break down within 1 km. I recommend developing the habit of checking the dipstick before driving - if the oil level is below the minimum mark, don't start the engine. In emergencies, drive slowly at constant speed and avoid exceeding 2000 RPM.

[GrantLee]

Last time during maintenance, the mechanic said an engine without oil wouldn't last 5 kilometers. Metal shavings from friction would clog the oil passages, and without oil film protection, the crankshaft and bearings would instantly seize. My friend didn't believe it and tried anyway—the engine was completely ruined in less than 3 km. Now before every long trip, he checks the oil viscosity with test strips and changes it early if the oil turns black. Actually, cold starts are the most dangerous—that's when the oil pump hasn't circulated oil throughout the engine yet. It's wise to keep a bottle of oil in the car for emergencies. If you spot a leak, topping up immediately saves way more time and money than calling a tow truck.