Taking care of mechanical concerns in a timely manner should be a top priority of any car owner, but keeping up with regular maintenance is often just as important. Neglecting tasks such as oil changes can produce a variety of negative outcomes, all of which are worth avoiding. Here are a few ways that avoiding oil changes can wreak havoc on your car.

4 Ways Neglecting Oil Changes Can Affect Your Car

1. Reduced Engine Performance

Because automotive oil breaks down over prolonged use, the parts of an engine that rely on it to function properly can experience reduced performance if regular oil changes aren’t conducted. Gaskets and pistons need fresh oil to perform to best of their ability. Working with old oil can lead to engine failure and damaged parts over time.

2. Dirty Oil

One way or another, your vehicle’s oil can become contaminated with dirt and debris. These contaminants can cause engine damage if left in the system for too long. Oil changes remove this dirty material by cycling in a fresh supply of oil.

3. Lowered Fuel Efficiency

Adequate lubrication is needed for an engine to fully burn up its fuel supply. Without changing your oil as recommended, this lubrication wears down and prevents an engine from fully using the fuel in the combustion chamber. With reduced fuel efficiency, you’ll spend more money filling up at the pump more often.

4. Decreased Engine Lifespan

Operating with old or contaminated oil is much harder on your car’s engine, so the longer you go without regular oil changes, the shorter your engine’s lifespan will be. Purchasing a brand-new—or even used—engine can be extremely expensive, so staying on top of the regular oil change appointments is well worth the trouble.

Anderson Automotive East is the go-to source for car repair work in the Hamilton County, OH, area. With a team of expertly trained technicians, the company can provide the best in services—whether it’s a simple oil change or more-intensive engine replacement. For more information or to schedule a free check-engine light diagnostic, call (513) 474-4200 or visit the website today.