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How Long Does Oil Last In A Car Not Driven?

Oil is an essential component for running your car, but how long does it last if you’re not driving? It’s a frequently asked question and one that many drivers want to know the answer to. Different factors can affect the lifespan of oil in unused vehicles, such as climate and storage conditions.

In this blog post, we’ll provide information on how long does oil last in a car not driven, so you can decide whether or not it’s necessary to change the oil before driving again.

Answer

The oil inside a car’s engine has a lifespan of about six months if the car is not driven. This is because old oil can dry out and lose its ability to properly lubricate the engine, which can lead to overheating and damage.

If you plan to leave your car unused for an extended period of time, make sure to store it in a cool, dry place away from extreme elements to help minimize oil degradation.

Related: How Long To Let Engine Cool Before Adding Oil?

How Can You Determine The Age Of The Oil In Your Car If You Don’t Remember When You Last Changed It?

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How-Long-Does-Oil-Last-In-A-Car-Not-Driven (1)

In these scenarios, a visual inspection of the oil can tell you a lot. If you notice it’s dark or has debris floating in it, it’s time to replace it. However, if the oil looks clean and free from any age or wear, it may not be necessary to change it immediately.

On the other hand, if you experience an illuminated Check Engine Light, knocking in the engine, or other symptoms like reduced fuel economy, don’t delay on getting it checked out. They could all be indications that it’s time for a fresh oil change.

Related: Overdue Oil Change Symptoms

Why Do Oil Changes Matter?

Over time, the oil in your engine deteriorates and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, causing your engine to become less efficient and potentially leading to costly engine damage.

What Happens If You Don’t Get An Oil Change?

Over time, the oil in your car’s engine will become contaminated with dirt and debris, causing it to thicken and form sludge. This sludge will prevent the oil from effectively removing heat from the engine, which can cause the engine to overheat and ultimately result in complete engine failure.

How Often Should You Get An Oil Change?

While it used to be recommended to change your oil every 3,000 miles, things have changed with modern vehicles. Thanks to advancements in technology and oil formulations, you can now expect to get up to 10,000 miles between oil changes.

Why Are Oil Change Recommendations Given in Mileage and in Time?

The answer lies in the fact that oil degrades over time regardless of how much or how little a car is driven. Exposure to oxygen, moisture, and heat all contribute to the breakdown of oil molecules, which can reduce its ability to lubricate and protect vital engine components.

Therefore, it’s vital to follow both the recommended mileage and time intervals for oil changes to maintain optimum engine performance and prevent costly repairs.

Why Oil Changes Are Still Needed if You Hardly Drive?

The truth is, the longevity of engine oil is not determined by the number of miles you drive, but by the amount of time that has passed since your last oil change. Engine oil deteriorates over time due to heat, moisture and contaminants, making it less effective and potentially damaging to your engine. That’s why it’s crucial to regularly change your oil, even if you’re not putting many miles on your car.

Related: How Much to Fix an Oil Leak?

What Happens If You Leave Oil In Your Car For Too Long?

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How-Long-Does-Oil-Last-In-A-Car-Not-Driven (2)

If you neglect to change your oil for too long, it will become contaminated with debris and sludge, resulting in thickened oil. This thickened oil is unable to adequately protect vital engine parts, leading to further contamination and accelerated wear and tear on the engine itself. Ultimately, this can cause your engine to overheat or even seize up completely.

 

FAQs about How Long Does Oil Last In A Car Not Driven

Should I change my oil if my car has been sitting?

Yes, you should change your oil if your car has been sitting for a long period of time. Engine oil breaks down over time regardless of how much or how little the car is driven, and leaving it in for too long can cause sludge to form and damage vital engine components.

Do I need to get my oil changed if I don’t drive often?

Yes, even if you don’t drive your car frequently, you should still change the oil on a regular basis to ensure that it is clean and free from contaminants.

Can I wait longer than 3 months between oil changes?

Yes, you can wait longer than 3 months between oil changes depending on the type of car you have and the type of oil you use. However, it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines for when to get your oil changed in order to maintain optimal engine performance and prevent costly repairs.

 

Conclusion

It’s important to remember that engine oil breaks down over time regardless of how much or how little the car is driven. That’s why it’s crucial to follow both the manufacturer-recommended mileage and time intervals for oil changes in order to maintain optimal engine performance and prevent costly repairs.

Regularly changing your oil and getting an oil change whenever your car has been sitting for a long period of time will help keep your engine running smoothly, ensuring that you get maximum performance out of your vehicle.

Thank you for reading! We hope this article was helpful in answering the question how long does oil last in a car not driven.

Timothy Ballard

I’m Timothy Ballard, owner of a used car dealership in Springfield. I love just about everything automotive, but I have a special place in my heart for trucks. I’m an ASE Certified Master Technician, so I know my way around a car. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling with my family and hiking new trails.

1 thought on “How Long Does Oil Last In A Car Not Driven?”

  1. Even in a car that’s rarely driven, oil doesn’t have an infinite lifespan. The general rule is that it should be changed approximately every six months. This is true, even though oil typically has a shelf life of five years.

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