Posted on 6/30/2025
Oil changes are one of the most important parts of regular car maintenance. Engine oil keeps your engine parts lubricated, reduces friction, and helps carry heat away from critical components. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at protecting your engine. While many drivers know oil changes are essential, some wonder how long they can really wait once that due date has passed. What Happens to Oil Over Time As engine oil circulates, it picks up dirt, debris, and tiny metal particles. Heat from the engine also causes oil to lose its protective properties and turn into sludge. When oil becomes too old or dirty, it can no longer provide proper lubrication. This increases friction inside the engine, leading to extra wear on parts like pistons, valves, and bearings. Manufacturer Recommendations vs. Reality Most manufacturers recommend changing your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for older vehicles, or every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for newe ... read more