The Costly Consequences of Skipping An Oil Change

Oil is the lifeblood of any modern gas-powered vehicle, and regular oil changes are one of the easiest ways to extend your vehicle’s service life and enjoy years of worry-free driving. Most drivers know that motor oil is responsible for lubricating vital engine components, including the pistons, cylinder walls, crankshaft, camshaft, connecting rods, and valve train components, but that’s just one part of the story. Oil also helps to remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants that threaten to disrupt the inner workings of a precisely calibrated engine. Regular oil changes also increase fuel efficiency, extend engine life, and keep everything running smoothly as the odometer continues to pile on the miles. Skipping out on an oil change or delaying the task past the recommended 5,000 to 7,500 interval might seem like an easy way to save some money, but it can lead to serious and expensive consequences. Join us as we review the hidden cost of missing an oil change and familiarize ourselves with a few tell-tale signs of an engine that desperately needs a little lubrication.

Overheating and Excessive Wear

Cost: $3,000 to $10,000 for engine replacement

An engine typically operates at anywhere between 195°F and 220°F during the course of normal operation, but excessive temperature can wreak havoc on an unsuspecting vehicle. Oil plays an important role in reducing friction and heat, but it becomes a less effective lubricant when it ages, becomes contaminated, or starts to break down. This overheating can cause some serious long-term damage under the hood and potentially lead to excessive wear and even outright failure. A full-on engine replacement is one of the most dreaded repair jobs in the auto world, with bills over $10,000. If you’re looking to save some serious cash, a $50 oil change is a pretty worthwhile investment. Even smaller repairs can rack up a large bill with components like turbochargers, variable valve timing systems, and cooling systems relying on consistent lubrication to keep everything working in perfect harmony. Old, degraded oil can turn into a thick sludge that has trouble penetrating the deeper reaches of the engine, stores heat, and causes no shortage of problems. Repairing these individual parts might not be as expensive as replacing the entire engine, but there’s no reason to risk a hefty bill when oil changes are so cheap and accessible.

Poor Performance

Cost: Hundreds to thousands for a totaled vehicle

It’s easy to tell the difference between a vehicle that’s been treated to regular oil changes and one that’s overdue for service. Whether it’s the purr of the engine, the reliable acceleration, or the high fuel efficiency, a well-lubricated car, truck, or SUV delivers consistent performance. When you start to skip out on oil changes, that performance can take a nosedive, increasing the likelihood of poor acceleration and fuel economy, and can even lead to stalling. It’s tough to put a price on these drawbacks, but in an emergency scenario, a stalled vehicle could lead to some serious headaches or even result in a serious accident.

Reduce Fuel Efficiency

Cost: $250 a year in wasted gas

The smoother an engine runs, the more efficient it can be. If you’re looking to max out your MPG, regular oil changes are one of the easiest ways to save a little money at the gas pump. A poorly lubricated engine has to work harder to achieve the same results, and that extra work comes at the cost of fuel economy. High heat, reduced compression, and insufficient cooling can all take their toll on your average MPG. Estimates vary, but experts have suggested that an engine operating on old oil may reduce its fuel economy by anywhere between 5 and 12 percent. Even a modest reduction in fuel economy can add up over time, which is why regular oil changes are such an important part of any vehicle maintenance routine.

Increased Emissions

Cost: $10 to $50 for failed state inspection

Skipping out on an oil change can not only hurt your wallet but can also have an impact on the planet. An inefficient engine running on contaminated oil is bound to produce excessive emissions. The wear and tear caused by old oil can scar the walls of the engine’s cylinders, which will result in more oil burning off and finding its way out of the tailpipe. If you drive in a state where an emissions check is part of the inspection regime, a missed oil change could mean the difference between a failed inspection and a fresh sticker.

Voided Warranty

Cost: $1,000 per year for extended warranty coverage

Manufacturer’s warranties and extended warranty plans basically serve as a form of insurance against some automotive worst-case scenarios. From basic powertrain coverage to more extensive policies that offer bumper-to-bumper protection, a warranty is a great way to gain a little peace of mind when it comes to potential repairs. That said, it’s important to read the fine print. Many warranties require drivers to perform regular oil changes and keep extensive service records of all the work performed on the vehicle. If you skip out on an oil change and the vehicle develops a serious mechanical issue related to improper lubrication, you could see your warranty voided and find yourself on the hook for any repairs.

Lower Resale Value

Cost: Hundreds to thousands

When trying to get the best possible price for a used vehicle, providing the buyer with a detailed service history is one of your biggest bargaining chips. These records won’t only alert the buyer to any past accidents or repairs but can also go a long way towards proving that a vehicle was properly cared for under your watch. Regular oil changes help to prevent more serious issues down the road and will often be one of the first things a buyer looks at when reviewing service records. If you plan on running your vehicle into the ground, this might not be as important of a consideration, but if you’re trying to maintain the resale or trade-in value, a simple oil change is worth the hassle.

Signs That You Need an Oil Change

Be sure to keep an eye out for some common signs that it’s time for an oil change. Many newer vehicles take the guesswork out of the process with oil life monitoring systems that’ll provide helpful reminders when it’s time to stop by your local lube shop, mechanic, or dealership, but a little more legwork might be required when it comes to older models. An illuminated oil light is a surefire sign that the oil needs to be addressed, though it often indicates more serious issues like leaks, low oil levels, a malfunctioning oil pump, a clogged filter, or a faulty oil pressure sensor.

Common signs that an engine is overdue for an oil change include reduced fuel economy and dark, dirty oil. Ideally, engine oil should be translucent and light amber in color. If it’s noticeably dark or if it contains any obvious impurities, an oil change is probably in the cards.

There are also a few common, oil-related signs and symptoms that a driver should keep an eye out for that aren’t directly related to a delayed oil change. Strange noises and smells should never be ignored, so if you hear a new clicking, clanking, or grinding sound or notice the telltale stench of burning oil coming from the exhaust or under the hood, you could very well be dealing with an oil leak. Blue or grey smoke emanating from the exhaust is also common in the case of a leak, so keep an eye on the tailpipe if you suspect you’re dealing with an oil-related issue.

If you want to keep your engine running like a well-oiled machine, ensuring it’s well-oiled is an obvious first step. The average cost of a normal oil change and filter replacement ranges between $50 and $100, depending on the vehicle and the type of oil it requires. While experts generally recommend having an oil change performed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, some vehicles have stricter guidelines. As always, consult the owner’s manual to find the specific schedule for your make and model. In addition to being mindful of when to change the oil, drivers should also take a little time to weigh where the service should be performed. Quick lube shops can be helpful in a pinch but don’t always have the best reputation when it comes to service and quality. Finding a trusted mechanic with a long record of positive reviews can be well worth the effort, though many drivers opt to return to the dealership where the vehicle was originally purchased. Free or discounted oil changes and complimentary maintenance plans are often included with new or Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, and returning to the dealership is a great way to maintain trade-in value. No matter what approach you decide to take, never let regular oil changes fall by the wayside.