How Low Oil Levels Aren't Good For Your Car
Posted on: 7 August 2019
Oil is very important for your car's engine, so you don't want it to get low or run out while the engine is running. If you let your car's engine run with low oil for too long, then you may be causing excessive wear and early engine failure. If you let the oil run out, then the consequences are dire. Here is more about what low oil does to your engine as well as the related signs and symptoms.
What Are the Consequences of Low Oil?
Oil does more than just lubricate your engine; it also helps keep things cool, working along with your car's separate cooling system. Without both systems running at peak efficiency, your car's engine could overheat enough to severely damage engine bearings. If you let this go on for too long, you could risk a blown engine in the near future.
What Happens if Oil Runs Out?
If your car runs out of oil, even for a short time, then your engine will seize up and then, in simple terms, melt. The parts inside your engine are quickly damaged, usually beyond repair, in a matter of minutes. Even a few seconds with no oil can cause serious engine damage. Unfortunately, by the time you realize that your car's engine is out of oil, it is usually too late.
What Are the Signs of Low Oil?
Most modern cars have an indicator that illuminates when oil pressure is low, but sometimes that is not always reliable. You may also hear ticking or scraping noises after a significant amount of oil is gone, and this is a sign that your engine is already being damaged. You may also notice an oil-burning smell and a lack of performance from your car.
How Can Low Oil Levels be Prevented?
You can help prevent low oils by checking your oil levels regularly and keeping an eye out for leaks. Make sure you perform regular oil and filter changes. If you suspect that your car is experiencing a loss in oil pressure, either do not drive it or stop driving it immediately to reduce the chance of permanent engine damage.
One of the services that you will receive when you visit a full-service gas station is that your oil and other fluids will be checked while you are getting gas. Therefore, you will be informed when your oil is low and the attendant can fill it up to normal levels, thus reducing the chance of immediate engine wear or damage. However, if you are losing oil regularly, then you should also look into having that problem repaired as well.
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