Oil changes are one of the most essential and often overlooked parts of car maintenance. They keep your engine running smoothly, prevent long-term damage, and ensure optimal performance. Yet, it’s easy to put off an oil change when life gets busy. After all, what harm could a few extra kilometres really do?
Well, more than you might think.
In this guide, we’ll explore how long you can go without an oil change, what happens if you skip it, the signs that your oil is overdue, and how to time your maintenance correctly all based on modern vehicles, not old-school assumptions.
Can You Go Over Your Oil Change Interval?
In short: you shouldn’t go over your oil change interval even by a few hundred kilometres. While most modern vehicles are more forgiving than older ones, fresh engine oil is crucial to keeping your motor clean, lubricated, and cool.
When you push past the manufacturer’s recommended interval, the oil inside your engine starts to degrade. Over time, it thickens, accumulates dirt and metal shavings, and becomes less effective at lubricating moving parts. That’s when engine wear starts accelerating and repair bills start piling up.
Ignoring oil change intervals can also put your vehicle warranty at risk. Manufacturers usually require a proper service history to honour repair claims.
How Often Should You Really Change Your Oil?
The old “every 5,000 kilometres” rule isn’t relevant for most modern engines anymore especially those running on synthetic oil.
Here’s a general guideline:
- Conventional oil: Change every 5,000–8,000 kilometres
- Synthetic oil: Change every 10,000–15,000 kilometres
- Severe driving conditions: Change more frequently, even with synthetic oil
What counts as “severe driving”?
- Stop-and-go traffic in hot climates
- Frequent short trips (less than 10 km)
- Towing heavy loads
- Off-road or mountainous driving
- Long periods of idling
For the most accurate information, always refer to your vehicle’s owner manual. Each manufacturer has unique service intervals based on your engine type.
What Happens If You Delay an Oil Change?
Skipping an oil change might save time today, but it could cost you a lot more in the long run. Here’s what happens behind the scenes:
- Loss of lubrication: As oil degrades, its ability to coat metal surfaces weakens. Friction increases, and parts begin to grind against each other.
- Engine overheating: Oil also helps regulate temperature. Old, sludgy oil can’t dissipate heat as efficiently.
- Sludge buildup: Contaminants like dirt and carbon start turning the oil into a tar-like sludge that clogs your engine and oil filter.
- Lower performance and petrol efficiency: A poorly lubricated engine works harder, which can lead to increased petrol usage.
- Costly engine damage: In extreme cases, you could be looking at complete engine failure which is far more expensive than routine maintenance.
Warning Signs It’s Time for an Oil Change
Even if you’ve lost track of your odometer, your car will usually let you know it’s time to change the oil. Look out for these telltale signs:
1. Dark, Gritty Oil
Check your oil using the dipstick. Fresh oil is amber or golden and easy to see through. If it looks thick, black, or has visible debris, it’s time to replace it.
2. Engine Noises or Knocking
Engine oil cushions internal parts and dampens noise. If your engine starts sounding louder than usual or you hear knocking it could mean there’s not enough oil or it’s too degraded to work effectively.
3. Dashboard Lights
Many cars have dedicated oil change, maintenance required, or check engine lights. Don’t ignore them. These indicators are programmed to notify you based on mileage or engine sensors. Ignoring them could lead to bigger issues down the road.
4. Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light is serious. If it comes on, it means your engine may not be getting enough oil pressure. Stop driving immediately and have your car checked. Low oil pressure can destroy your engine in minutes.
How Long Does an Oil Change Take?
An oil change is one of the quickest maintenance tasks typically taking 20 to 45 minutes at a professional service centre. If you do it yourself, expect to spend around an hour including prep time.
With such a short time investment, there’s no real reason to delay. In fact, many drivers combine an oil change with other quick services, like tyre rotations or air filter replacements.
Tips to Maximise Oil Life and Engine Health
- Use high-quality oil: Stick with the type recommended by your manufacturer (conventional or synthetic).
- Monitor driving habits: If you often take short trips, warm up your engine fully to help burn off moisture.
- Don’t just rely on dashboard lights: Check your oil manually every few weeks especially before long drives.
- Replace the oil filter every time you change the oil. It’s essential to trap contaminants and keep your oil clean longer.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Delaying an Oil Change?
Absolutely not. Skipping an oil change might seem harmless in the short term, but it directly impacts your engine’s longevity and your wallet.
Think of it this way: fresh oil is cheaper than engine repairs. So even if your car seems to be running fine, stick to the recommended intervals. Your engine will thank you and so will your future self.
Need an Oil Change? Let MotorHub Come to You
At MotorHub, we make oil changes easy. Whether you’re at home, work, or anywhere in between, our mobile service team brings certified mechanics and high-quality engine oils right to your doorstep.
- Hassle-free oil changes
- Oil filter replacements included
- Vehicle health checks available
