Posted on 1/25/2026

A lot of drivers think of oil changes as basic maintenance, like brushing your teeth. You do it because you are supposed to, not because you expect to feel a difference right away. Here’s the catch. When oil service is neglected, the car often starts feeling heavier, noisier, and less responsive long before anything breaks. Regular oil changes are one of the simplest ways to protect the engine and keep fuel economy from quietly sliding in the wrong direction. Why Oil Condition Affects More Than Engine Protection Engine oil is doing several jobs at once. It lubricates moving parts, helps carry heat away from hot areas, and prevents contaminants from sticking to internal surfaces. As the oil ages, it collects combustion byproducts, moisture, and tiny particles from normal wear. Once the oil is past its useful life, the engine can still run, but it is working with less stable lubrication and less effective cleaning. That can increase friction and heat, which can ... read more