What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?

Life in Houma can be hectic, and sometimes it’s difficult to keep up with your new car’s recommended scheduled maintenance. At Southland Dodge, we’ve been asked what happens if you don’t change your oil? 

The motor oil in your new car will eventually deteriorate and will become less effective at lubricating your engine’s moving components. This increases friction, which can lead to higher temperatures and overheating. When your engine is too hot, serious damage may happen, like excess wear and tear and even the failure of essential components. Learn more about the crucial need for regular oil changes below. 

What Does Motor Oil Do?

Motor oil lubricates your engine. More precisely, it has the following essential roles in your drives around Thibodaux:

• The primary function of motor oil is to reduce wear and tear on the moving parts of your engine.
• Motor oil with dispersants is made to clean sludge from the engine.
• Detergents in your motor oil help to clean varnish from the engine.
• When replaced regularly, motor oil can help to neutralize acids that originate from fuels, improve piston ring seals, and cool your engine by displacing heat.

Trust the Southland Dodge service center when they say you never want to know what happens if you don’t get your oil changed.

How Often Should I Change My Vehicle’s Oil?

These days, most Paradis drivers can go between 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes. Still, every driver and vehicle is different. You may need to increase your oil change frequency if you commute a long distance out to Hahnville or beyond every day.

How Do I Change My Oil?

First, read your owner’s manual to see what type of oil your vehicle requires. Then, once you have your oil, follow these DIY oil changes steps:

1. Jack up your car with jack stands or steel ramps.
2. Find your oil drain plug on the bottom of your oil pan beneath your engine. Place a container directly underneath the plug and remove the plug. Let your old oil drain out completely. When you’re certain all the oil has drained, replace the plug.
3. Find your oil filter, and using a wrench, remove it. Don’t be alarmed if a bit of extra oil drains out when you remove the filter, so be sure you keep the container underneath to catch it. 
4. Rub a bit of oil around the rubber seal of your oil filter. This ensures the filter is watertight and is a crucial step. 
5. Put the new filter in place, and tighten it by hand. 
6. Now that the old oil is completely drained and a new oil filter is in place, remove your oil cap from the top of your engine and add the specified amount of new oil (should be stated in your owner’s manual). Then, replace the oil cap.
7. Check your oil level by pulling out the dipstick. If it’s still low, add a little more and check the oil level again. Once you see the proper oil level reading, you’re done!

Southland Dodge is Always at Your Service

If you need an oil change, schedule a service appointment with Southland Dodge. You should also check out our service specials to see if you can save some money! Reach out to our service team. They are always at your service.