Did you know that failing to change your vehicle’s oil can clog the oil filter? CAR FIX advises that this is not only true but also that an oil filter that is clogged can damage the engine beyond repair. It is not worth it to ignore your vehicle’s oil changes. Have the oil changed every 3,000 miles or 5,000 miles if you use synthetic oil to avoid the following problems.
Reduced Performance
Motor oil serves three purposes as it circulates through the engine. It lubricates parts, cleans them, and draws heat away from them. Motor oil then flows through the oil filter to be cleaned itself. If the oil filter is clogged, the motor oil will remain dirty and deposit grime throughout the engine. This will directly affect how well your engine performs, reducing the performance to lagging and sputtering.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Unfortunately, because the engine is running inefficiently, you will notice a reduction in your automobile’s fuel efficiency. Throughout the summer, we have seen extremely high gas prices here in Tennessee. The last thing you need is to have to fill your tank more often. It’s much less expensive to have the oil changed regularly than it is to deal with reduced fuel economy.
Reduced Oil Pressure
One more thing that is going to be reduced is the pressure of the oil as it circulates through the engine. This is because the motor oil is getting stuck behind the clogged oil filter. When the oil pressure is reduced, the engine control unit turns on the oil light to alert you of the problem.
Grinding/Metallic Noises
The reduction in oil pressure can mean that you have very little oil circulating through the engine. This is what damages the engine beyond repair. It is crucial that you avoid driving your automobile if the engine is grinding or making metallic noises.
Increased Hydrocarbons
Finally, if you live in a place where your vehicle is required to pass an emissions test, a clogged oil filter can actually cause the vehicle to fail the test. This is because the dirty engine releases additional hydrocarbons into your vehicle’s exhaust.
CAR FIX is the best group of auto shops in Tennessee. We have locations in Oak Ridge and Oak Ridge North, TN, Crossville and Cookeville, and Maryville and Knoxville, TN. Call the shop closest to you to schedule an oil change. Don’t take chances in causing unnecessary engine damage.
