Is it okay not to change engine oil for a year?
3 Answers
It is not okay to leave engine oil unchanged for a year. Prolonged failure to change the oil can lead to a decline in its lubricating ability, resulting in insufficient engine power or even engine damage. Reduced sealing effect: High-quality engine oil with appropriate viscosity can effectively seal the gaps between the cylinder block and pistons, preventing gas leakage. If the oil is not changed for a long time, it may become watery and lose its sealing function. Reduced lubrication effect: The viscosity of engine oil gives it strong adhesion, allowing it to form a protective film between gears, shafts, and other components, ensuring smooth operation and reducing wear. Deteriorated oil largely loses this function.
I've been driving for over a decade, and not changing the engine oil for a year is absolutely unacceptable. Engine oil acts like a protective film for the engine. Over time, it oxidizes and deteriorates, accumulating metal shavings and dust, significantly reducing its lubricating effectiveness. This increases friction between internal engine components, accelerates wear, and leads to higher fuel consumption. In severe cases, it can clog oil passages or cause piston seizure, resulting in repair costs of several thousand. I recommend checking and changing the oil every six months or 5,000 kilometers—don’t cut corners. Especially in city driving with frequent stops and starts, oil degrades faster. Regular maintenance also extends engine life and keeps the car running smoother. Remember, saving small money now will cost you big later.
I have a neighbor who forgot to change the engine oil last year and didn't touch it for a whole year. As a result, the car became noisy when driving, and later it broke down on the road. After being towed to the repair shop, they found the oil was as thick as mud, the oil pump was damaged, and the engine overhaul cost over 8,000 yuan. Since then, I make sure to change the oil every six months, even if I don't drive much. Oil aging is no small matter—it affects the entire powertrain. Now I set phone reminders to avoid missing it. A car is just a means of transportation; keeping it well-maintained is reliable. Don't let laziness ruin a good car.
