Oil Change Delay and Its Potential Impact on Engine Health
Many assume that a few thousand miles past an oil change won't cause significant damage to your engine. However, extended intervals between oil changes can lead to wear and tear that can eventually cause severe engine issues.
Understanding the Risks of Delayed Oil Changes
While occasional extension of oil change intervals may not cause immediate damage, repeatedly doing so can significantly increase the risk of engine failure. This is especially true when using petroleum-based oil, as it degrades quickly and loses its protective properties.
Case Studies and Their Implications
A recent incident highlighted by a Dodge vehicle failing due to worn lifters at 18,000 km underscores the importance of timely oil changes. This situation was a wake-up call, especially considering the extended oil change intervals some drivers might adopt.
On the other hand, Toyota's history shows a shift in oil change recommendations. They have reduced their interval from every 7500 miles to every 3750 miles. This suggests that modern engines require a more frequent maintenance schedule to ensure optimal performance.
Choosing the Right Oil and Regular Maintenance
To minimize the risks associated with delayed oil changes, it's crucial to use the correct type of oil and maintain the proper amount in your engine. Synthetic oil, such as Amsoil, rated for longer intervals (15,000 miles) can be highly effective in extending maintenance intervals. However, it is wise to check your oil levels regularly to ensure they are adequate.
Monthly Maintenance Checks
Set your B mileage to zero after each oil change, and check the fluid levels monthly, especially on the first Saturday. By doing this, you can catch any issues early and avoid major problems. Even with synthetic oil, my Honda CRV and Nissan Maxima lasted over 140,000 and 200,000 miles, respectively, without overheating issues. YouTube has numerous resources available, including videos from experts like Scotty Kilmer and Chris Fix, which can help you understand and perform oil changes and engine maintenance effectively.
Historical Evidence
My 1987 Toyota pickup, known for its 'sturdy' 22R 4-cylinder engine, serves as a historical example of how infrequent oil changes can be tolerable. By changing the oil filter every 2500 miles and adding a fresh quart of oil, the engine performed well without rusting out the body for 9 years.
Conclusion: Preventing Premature Engine Failure
In summary, it is essential to change your oil on time to prevent premature engine failure. Delaying oil changes by just a few thousand miles can lead to wear and tear that might eventually damage your engine. By following the recommended maintenance schedules and using high-quality oils, you can help your vehicle run smoothly for a long time.