Why Do Vehicles Need Oil Changes?
3 Answers
Vehicles require oil changes because engine oil serves four major functions: cooling, lubrication, cleaning, and sealing. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the proper operation of the engine. As engine operating time accumulates, the oil becomes contaminated due to factors such as high-temperature oxidation, wear particles from mechanical components, and fuel vapor corrosion. Additionally, engine oil naturally depletes during normal usage. Vehicle owners should regularly check both the oil level and its contamination level, which is why periodic oil changes are necessary. If the oil level falls below the specified threshold and affects engine performance, it can cause fatal damage to the engine.
I've found that changing the engine oil is a crucial step in car maintenance, primarily because oil deteriorates and loses effectiveness over time. The lubrication function is vital - oil reduces friction between engine components. When I drove an older car, insufficient lubrication caused direct metal-to-metal contact, generating high temperatures that could lead to engine overheating and seizure, with serious consequences. In terms of cleaning, fresh oil carries away combustion byproducts and metal particles, preventing sludge buildup that can clog oil passages. I remember once neglecting an oil change for six months, resulting in thick sludge formation inside the engine and repair costs running into thousands - a painful lesson. Rust prevention is another reason, as oil contains anti-corrosion additives that expire, allowing rust to damage precision components. Additionally, oil helps seal pistons to maintain compression, but aged oil's viscosity changes reduce sealing efficiency, increasing fuel consumption. Generally, changing oil every 5,000-10,000 km or every six months can extend engine life by over 100,000 km, avoiding major overhauls. Small maintenance investments prevent big expenses!
You ask why I change oil? Simply put, it saves money and prevents future troubles. Fresh oil acts like a protective film for the engine, offering superb lubrication and rust prevention. But after a few months, it either thins out or thickens—especially with frequent stop-and-go city traffic where contaminants build up quickly. Not changing the oil leads to sludge buildup, clogging the system like a blocked pipe, forcing the engine to work harder and spiking fuel consumption by over 10%—I've tested this on my car. Worse yet, neglecting oil changes accelerates part wear, potentially leading to an engine overhaul costing tens of thousands, far more expensive than dozens of oil changes. Using synthetic oil extends the change interval, offering both affordability and peace of mind. If the dipstick shows black, gritty oil with a burnt smell, act immediately. Make regular maintenance a habit, and your car can run smoothly for over a decade.
