What Causes Reduced Vehicle Power After an Oil Change?

[JosieLee]

Reduced vehicle power after an oil change is often due to a faulty oil filter or an uncleaned lubrication system. Below are the reasons for reduced vehicle power after an oil change: Faulty Oil Filter: A faulty or clogged oil filter can cause issues. The oil filter should be replaced along with the oil during an oil change. Uncleaned Lubrication System: If the lubrication system has not been cleaned for a long time, deposits may accumulate. After changing the oil, some impurities may be washed out and suspended in the oil, leading to a clogged oil filter and reduced power. This typically manifests as reduced power three to five days after the oil change and disappears after a few more oil changes. The drained used oil may also appear darker with impurities.

[RosalieDella]

After changing the engine oil, I felt a lack of power in my car, and I've encountered similar situations before. Usually, the issue lies with the type and amount of oil used. For example, if the wrong oil viscosity is selected—using oil that's too thick can hinder engine movement, like putting a thick coat on a machine, affecting heat dissipation and efficiency. Or, if too much oil is added, the high oil level can cause over-lubrication inside the engine, increasing friction and reducing power. Using the wrong synthetic or mineral oil might also not suit the engine's design. New oil also requires an adaptation period; the engine needs to re-break-in for a few days after an oil change, which can cause a temporary sluggish feeling. Sometimes, improper oil-changing procedures can introduce air or contaminants into the oil system, clogging the filter and making the engine run less smoothly. I recommend checking the dipstick to ensure the oil level is within the normal range and verifying the oil viscosity matches the specifications in the owner's manual. If the issue persists, it could damage engine components and increase repair costs. Remember to test-drive the car for a few days after each maintenance session. If the problem continues, take it to a professional shop for inspection—don't overlook small details.

[McBrooke]

After changing the oil, I feel like the car has lost power. I think it might be psychological or due to minor mistakes. Sometimes, with new oil, you become more sensitive to the driving experience and mistakenly perceive it as a loss of power. Or, the mechanic might not be experienced enough, adding a few milliliters too much or too little oil, affecting the lubrication balance. I had this happen with my old car before—I thought the engine was broken, but later found out it was due to viscosity mismatch. Additionally, if the oil filter isn’t replaced at the same time, residual impurities from the old filter can clog the oil passages. Or, if the oil pan drain plug isn’t tightened properly, oil leakage can lead to insufficient oil pressure. After maintenance, observe changes in engine noise and fuel consumption. If the car accelerates slower or the engine sounds abnormal, prioritize checking the oil quality and installation. I recommend going to a reputable shop for maintenance and keeping records for traceability to avoid DIY mistakes. New oil usually adapts after a few hundred kilometers—just be patient and give it a try.

[DiGrace]

After changing the engine oil, the car's performance seems sluggish, and I suspect the most common issue is the oil viscosity. If the oil is too thick, its poor fluidity makes the engine hard to turn, like putting chains on the wheels; if it's too thin, it lacks sufficient protection and affects lubrication. Another possibility is that air bubbles remain in the system after refilling, disrupting oil pressure. I recommend first checking the dipstick to ensure the oil level is in the middle and verifying the label to confirm the correct oil grade. Usually, driving a few dozen kilometers allows the system to stabilize, and you can then observe if performance improves. If not, inspect the oil filter or seals in the oil lines, as these can often be adjusted manually. Don’t rush to the repair shop—take some time to test it under normal driving conditions.