Are Higher-Mileage Oil Changes Really Harmful? Find Out at Lexus of Calgary
Oil changes are some of the most important services you can get for your vehicle. Of course, coming to the dealership for an oil change every 4,800 kilometres for conventional oil or every 8,000 to 16,000 kilometres for synthetic oil can be a real hassle. Is there really any harm in changing your oil less frequently than the recommended intervals? Take a look here and find out.
Short-Term Problem: Sludge
So, you’ve gone a few thousand kilometres over the recommended oil change mileage, and yet the world hasn’t ended. Your Lexus still seems to drive just fine, and you haven’t noticed any big changes. But there are negative effects that you can’t see just yet. As engine oil is exposed to the high heat of an internal combustion engine, it eventually begins to break down. When this happens, it can start to turn into sludge and build up in your engine. Sludge deposits can gum up the system, causing various components like the camshaft and crankshaft not to get the amount of oil they need. When this happens, they may become damaged by friction. If you do get an oil change at this point, the damage may already be done. Your engine may not fail you right away, but it’s also likely that its lifespan will be shorter.
Decreased Performance
Performance is part of what makes a Lexus so fun. If you skip oil changes or go too long without them, you may notice decreased performance. This is because of the aforementioned sludge. Your engine will have to work harder for lower performance, guzzling gasoline as it goes. At this point, you may notice that your Lexus doesn’t drive like it used to.
Long-Term Problem: Engine Failure
If you’ve already driven several thousand kilometres over the recommended oil change interval and continue to drive without new oil, you’re likely to be in for an even bigger shock. As sludge continues to build up and your engine's moving components don’t get the lubrication they need, the friction will cause more and more damage. Eventually, your engine will no longer be able to handle the friction, and something will break. The head gasket might blow, the engine may overheat, or the engine will seize as metal grinds against metal. Once this happens, you will need a completely new engine.
Schedule Your Next Oil Change at Lexus of Calgary
It should be clear by now that getting oil changes late is a bad idea. When the time comes for your Lexus to have its next oil change, schedule it online or just drop by Lexus of Calgary, serving Chestermere, Airdrie, and beyond.
Complimentary Lexus of Calgary Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi
- Courtesy Loaners
- Courtesy Transportation Shuttle
- Business Workstations
- Quiet Room
- Parts & Gear Boutique
- Complimentary Beverage & Coffee Bar
- Complimentary Snacks
- Newspapers & Magazines
- Massage Chairs
- Certified Technicians
- Genuine OEM Parts
- Express Service Department
- Comfortable Waiting Area
- State-of-the-Art Facility
- Extended Hours
- Saturday Service Hours
- Home / Office Pick-up & Delivery
- Fresh Baked Cookies
- Flat Screen TVs
- Nail Salon
