What does it mean when the car display shows 'Please change engine oil immediately'?
4 Answers
When the car display shows 'Please change engine oil immediately', it is a reminder that the engine oil has reached its service limit and needs to be replaced promptly. Additional information about engine oil is as follows: 1. If you find that the engine oil level is too low, quickly locate a nearby repair shop or gas station to replenish the oil. It is essential to use the same type of oil as the original and avoid mixing different oils, as this can alter the oil's properties, such as reducing its lubrication and cooling performance, thereby failing to adequately protect the engine. 2. The engine oil level should not exceed the upper limit on the dipstick. Exceeding this limit can increase engine load, affect performance, and over time, damage the engine's exhaust ventilation system, increase carbon deposits, and even lead to oil burning if the oil level is too high.
This alert means your car is due for maintenance. My vehicle also displayed this reminder recently - essentially the system detected the engine oil's service life is nearly depleted. The engine relies entirely on oil for lubrication and protection. Over time, oil oxidizes and deteriorates, and continued driving with worn-out oil can cause significant component wear. If you ignore this warning and keep driving, worst-case scenario you could damage the engine, with repairs potentially costing tens of thousands. I immediately checked the maintenance manual and scheduled an appointment with the dealership. The technician explained that modern vehicles now use electronic timers that automatically calculate service intervals based on driving habits and mileage, unlike the old rigid 5,000 km rule. Here's a pro tip: After an oil change, always ask the technician to reset the system - otherwise the reminder will keep popping up at next startup.
The oil change reminder popping up on the display indicates the oil monitoring system has been triggered. Many modern vehicles now come equipped with oil condition sensors that can detect viscosity changes in real-time. Once when I noticed the reminder, I immediately checked with the dipstick and found the oil had turned completely black, meaning its cleaning effectiveness had long been lost. Prolonged oil neglect leads to sludge buildup that can clog oil passages, with camshaft bearings often being the first casualties. If your vehicle has start-stop functionality, extra caution is needed as frequent startups are particularly harsh on oil. Additionally, the oil filter must be replaced simultaneously - otherwise, mixing fresh oil with contaminants from the old filter renders the change pointless. It's advisable not to delay beyond 200 miles, especially for vehicles frequently driven on highways.
It is recommended to address the oil change reminder immediately when it appears. Using expired engine oil is like allowing toxins to accumulate in the bloodstream—its lubricating capability drops significantly, which may lead to crankshaft seizure. I've encountered cases where owners delayed the oil change for half a month, resulting in an engine overhaul and even turbocharger failure. Many repair shops now offer free inspection services, where you can also check the oil filter's sealing performance. Northern drivers should be especially cautious, as substandard oil tends to solidify in low winter temperatures. Always choose manufacturer-certified oil grades, as different engines have varying viscosity requirements. After maintenance, the vehicle's system requires a professional reset—some models even require a diagnostic tool for this operation.
