Yes, it is important that you change the oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles. If you would like to go longer than that, talk with us here at Mike’s Automotive about switching to synthetic motor oil. You don’t need to have the oil changed as frequently when you use synthetic. Either way, failing to change the oil when it needs it can leave you with a clogged oil filter and the following problems.
Sketchy Engine Performance
The oil is designed to help the engine run inefficiently by keeping it cooler and removing the dirt and grime. Unfortunately, if the oil filter is clogged, the motor oil will be dirty as it circulates through the engine. This will affect your engine performance because the oil will be depositing dirt onto the moving parts. Consequently, you will notice a reduction in your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s performance.
Reduction in Fuel Economy
Any time there is a reduction in engine performance there is also a reduction in the fuel economy that the vehicle gets. This is because the engine is not running efficiently. Regular oil changes help to keep your engine running efficiently and cool. This helps the engine use less fuel as it operates. When the engine is running inefficiently, it uses more fuel to produce power.
Reduction in Oil Pressure
Another thing that is going to be reduced if the oil filter gets clogged is the oil pressure and circulation throughout the engine. This, too, affects how well your engine performs. Unfortunately, once the oil pressure gets too low, you will end up with an oil warning light on the dashboard. We recommend you pull over and call for a tow truck to bring your vehicle to our shop.
Strange Metallic Noises
The reason why is that the oil light is warning you that there is not enough oil circulating through the engine. Aside from the warning light, you may also hear strange metallic noises coming from the engine. This is a sign that the engine parts are grinding against each other. If you continue to drive your automobile, you could damage the engine irreparably in fewer than 30 minutes.
Increased Hydrocarbons
Finally, because the dirty motor oil is depositing dirt throughout the engine, you will end up with increased hydrocarbons in your exhaust. This can be a problem if you need to pass an emissions test to register your vehicle with the state in which you live.
Mike’s Automotive in Juliet, TN, is here to help, so call us to set up an oil change if it has been too long.