What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?

Without oil in your vehicle, there’s nothing to absorb the heat from your engine, pistons, and other components of the engine block. Why is this important for drivers in the Cherry Hill area? When you don’t keep up with regular oil changes, it could lead to more serious vehicle issues down the road. See why regular oil changes should not be overlooked with the experts at the Acura Turnersville service center.

What Does The Oil Do?

The most important task that motor oil does is act as a lubricant for your engine. However, that is not its only purpose.

• Your vehicle’s pistons can actually weld themselves to the cylinders if you do not regularly change your oil.
• Oil helps prevent overheating by absorbing some of the heat from the engine components.
• Without regular oil changes, engine performance can be affected by a build-up of dirt and debris.
• Fresh oil keeps your vehicle running at peak performance when you hit the Maple Shade roads.

How Often Should I Change My Vehicle’s Oil?

An oil change used to be necessary every 3,000 miles. However, thanks to enhancements in vehicle and engine oil technology, most drivers can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil change services. Keep in mind that every vehicle is different and you may have different driving habits than other Medford drivers. For example, if you have a long commute to work each day or do a lot of off-road driving, you may need to bring your vehicle by for an oil change more often. And of course, it’s smart to check your oil level at home on a regular basis.

How Do I Change the Oil Myself?

If you plan to perform your own oil changes, be sure to take a look at your owner’s manual to see what kind of oil your vehicle requires. When you have the proper oil, follow these simple steps:

1. Jack your car up with jack stands or steel ramps.
2. Find the oil drain plug. It is located on the bottom of your oil pan underneath your engine. Place an oil basin directly underneath the plug, then unscrew the plug to drain out all of the old, dirty oil. This task could take as long as 15 minutes to drain the oil completely. Replace the plug when all of the oil is drained.
3. Find the oil filter and remove it by using an oil filter wrench. Don’t remove the oil basin because a small amount of oil could drain out when you remove the filter.
4. Grab your new filter, being sure to rub a bit of oil around the rubber seal – this ensures your filter is watertight and is an essential step.
5. Put the new filter in place. Be sure to tighten it by hand.
6. Once these steps are complete, you can remove your oil cap. Add the proper amount of new oil. If you do not know how much your vehicle requires, you can find that information in your owner’s manual. Replace the oil cap when you are finished.
7. You are not quite done just yet! It is important to check your oil level as well. You can do this by pulling out the dipstick. If you see that the level is still too low, you may add another ounce and check the level again. Once the oil level is correct, you are all set!

Choose Acura Turnersville for Oil Change Service and More

Now that you know what happens if you don’t get your oil changed, you’ll be better equipped to care for your vehicle. Although it is not difficult to change your oil, many Turnersville drivers prefer to leave vehicle maintenance tasks to the professionals. That’s not a problem. The knowledgeable and friendly technicians at Acura Turnersville would be glad to handle any routine maintenance and get your vehicle back on the road as soon as possible. We can even handle your cabin air filter replacement while you’re here! Contact us with any questions.