What happens if you don't change the engine oil for a long time?

[StPhoebe]

If you don't change the engine oil for a long time, the following effects will occur: 1. Reduced sealing effect: High-quality oil with appropriate viscosity can effectively block the gap between the cylinder block and the piston, preventing gas leakage. If the oil is not changed for a long time, it will become watery and lose its sealing effect. 2. Reduced lubrication effect: The lubrication system is crucial to the engine, affecting its performance and service life. If the oil is not changed for a long time, the lubrication effect will be greatly reduced. 3. Reduced cooling effect: The heat absorption and thermal conductivity of oil are much higher than water. If the oil deteriorates seriously, the heat dissipation function will be greatly reduced. 4. Increased wear of mechanical parts: If the car does not change the oil for a long time, the oil will become ineffective and deteriorate. The oil will not only fail to protect but also increase the wear and damage to mechanical parts. 5. Corrosion of internal parts: If the oil is not changed for a long time, there will be a lot of impurities, such as iron filings, which will not only cause wear but also corrode internal parts. 6. Further damage to the engine: It will further damage the engine, similar to the harm of lack of oil. Lack of oil causes direct damage, while not changing the oil depends on whether the oil deteriorates and its performance declines. Damage occurs after deterioration and performance decline, and the process is relatively longer, causing slow damage. 7. Higher maintenance costs: Not changing the oil and oil filter in time or using inferior oil will lead to the production of sludge. When there is too much sludge in the engine, the oil pump will have difficulty maintaining sufficient oil pressure, causing engine failure and higher maintenance costs.

[Caleb]

I always remember to change the engine oil regularly whenever I drive out, because once I neglected maintenance and delayed the interval for almost 10,000 kilometers without changing it. The oil had aged, and its lubrication effect was much worse. The engine noise became louder and louder, and it even started to vibrate. Upon inspection, it was found that there was severe internal wear and a lot of sludge. The engineer said this would shorten the engine's lifespan, possibly leading to oil burning or even a complete breakdown. The repair cost nearly 10,000 yuan, ten times more expensive than timely oil changes. Since then, I've developed the habit of changing the oil every six months or 5,000 kilometers, or using a mobile app as a reminder to avoid small savings leading to big losses. I also pay more attention to other maintenance items, like checking the filters, so the car can run longer and more reliably.

[Gertrude]

As a car owner, I believe saving money should have its limits. While skipping oil changes for extended periods may seem like saving a few hundred dollars on oil costs, the risks are too great. Over time, engine oil oxidizes and deteriorates, losing viscosity and providing insufficient lubrication, which accelerates internal component wear and can lead to sludge buildup clogging oil passages. If problems arise, such as engine overheating or seizing, repair costs can easily exceed tens of thousands. I once did the math - an oil change costs just a few hundred dollars, but delaying maintenance until failure might require replacing the entire engine block. For both safety and economy, I recommend setting a maintenance schedule, using higher-quality oil, or having the shop record reminders. Ultimately, just like our bodies, timely maintenance is true wisdom for vehicles.

[LeEvelyn]

Engine oil is the guardian angel in your car, but if left unchanged for too long, it turns into a ticking time bomb. It's meant to lubricate engine components, reducing friction and heat; however, as it ages, it can become too thin or thick, forming acidic substances and debris that scratch metal surfaces, cause sludge buildup, and reduce cooling efficiency. The result? Unexplained increases in fuel consumption, weakened power, and in severe cases, seized and ruined components. I now regularly check the dipstick and oil condition, replacing it immediately if it turns black or develops an odd smell. Related maintenance, such as matching the oil grade and cleaning the system, can prevent sudden breakdowns. Don't underestimate this habit—it can significantly extend your car's lifespan.

[FelixAnn]

Safety comes first when driving. Not changing the engine oil for a long time directly threatens driving safety. After the oil quality deteriorates, the engine is prone to overheating or sudden stalling, especially on highways, where breaking down is unacceptable. If you break down in a remote area, rescue is troublesome and dangerous. My friend learned this the hard way—he forgot to change the oil for six months, and his car smoked and seized, nearly causing an accident. Quickly go to a reputable shop to check oil pressure and cleanliness to avoid this risk. Develop good habits, such as recording the mileage during each maintenance, which is especially important for beginners. Related details like oil temperature monitoring can also help ensure worry-free trips.