How Long Can You Go Without an Oil Change?
Oil changes are part of maintenance for all vehicles. The duration between oil changes depends on the type of oil you use and the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
If you are unsure when you should change the oil and do not have the owner’s manual, Little Wolf Automotive Express Lube in Antigo, WI can help. We provide oil changes and other maintenance services without an appointment.
How Often Should You Change Oil in Antigo, WI?
Most vehicles use full or partial synthetic oil.
- In most cases, a vehicle that uses full synthetic oil can go up to 10,000 miles without changing the oil.
- If the vehicle uses partial synthetic oil, you should get an oil change at about 6,000 to 7,500 miles.
- If you have a vehicle that still uses natural oil, you need to change the oil every 3,000 miles or three months, whichever comes first.
Overdue Oil Change Symptoms
Most oil change facilities put a sticker in the window to help you remember when to change the oil. However, if you still forget to change the oil, the damage has already started by the time you see symptoms.
Symptoms of an overdue oil change include:
Changes in Oil Color and Consistency
The oil should be translucent with an amber color. Dark oil means that it is dirty, which can be due to oil picking up debris as the engine uses it.
When checking your car oil in Antigo, WI, you should be able to see the dipstick through the oil.
Burning Oil Smell
A burning oil smell signifies a leak. While it’s not necessarily time to change the oil, you need to bring your vehicle to Little Wolf Automotive in Antigo, WI so we can find and repair the leak.
If the leak is bad enough or you don’t check the oil frequently enough, the oil could leak out and ruin the engine.
Knocking Noise From the Engine
An engine has many moving parts, all of which need lubrication. These parts have tight tolerances—thousands of an inch between moving parts. For example, the distance between a rod bearing or a main bearing could be as small as 0.003, depending on the vehicle year, make and model.
Moving parts create heat, and they will freeze together without proper lubrication. Once that happens, the engine is done, toast, a boat anchor.
Dashboard Warning Light
Often referred to as a dummy light, this light comes on when the oil pressure is too low. If this happens, stop driving immediately and tow the vehicle to Little Wolf Automotive in Antigo, WI.
Low Oil Pressure
The oil pressure gauge tells you how much oil pressure you have. If the oil pressure is low, it is the same as the light coming on. Stop immediately and have the vehicle towed to Little Wolf Automotive in Antigo, WI before doing any more damage.
If the gauge just dropped, you might be able to save the engine. This might happen if an oil line breaks and you suddenly lose oil pressure.
Contact Little Wolf Automotive in Antigo, WI for an Oil Change
When it’s time for an oil change, stop by Little Wolf Automotive Express Lube in Antigo, WI for an oil change. You do not need an appointment for our Express Lube.
Reach out to us by calling 715-350-4287 or filling out this form. You can also stop by 1436 Neva Rd, Antigo, WI 54409.
