How Long Is It Safe to Drive After the “Oil Change Due” Warning?
It happens to every driver eventually: you’re cruising down the road when a message suddenly pops up on your dashboard reading, “Change Engine Oil Soon” or “Oil Change Required.” When that reminder appears, it’s normal to wonder how much time and how many kilometres you have left before booking an oil change appointment becomes an emergency. The short answer is that you should have your oil changed as soon as possible, ideally within two weeks or approximately 800 kilometres of the reminder appearing. Failing to do so could result in several negative consequences, including severe engine friction, sludge buildup, and even voided warranty coverage. Continue reading with our team at Bourgeois Motors Ford to learn more.
Read More:
Can You Continue Driving with a Check Engine Light On
How Long Can You Wait After Your Ford Says Oil Change Due?
The distance you can safely travel depends on the specific alert displayed on your instrument cluster. Ford vehicles use a two-stage Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor system designed to provide advance notice before your engine’s health is put at risk:
- “Change Engine Oil Soon“: This notification triggers when your oil lifespan drops to approximately 5%. While there is no reason to panic or immediately pull off the road, you should treat this as your cue to schedule a service visit.
- “Oil Change Required“: This is an urgent warning indicating your oil life has reached 0%. At this stage, the fluid has broken down, losing its ability to lubricate and protect components. Once this message lights up, you should get your vehicle to a technician within a maximum of 800 kilometres or two weeks.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long for an Oil Change?
Although your Ford will typically continue to run after the Oil Change Required message appears, delaying service beyond 800 kilometres or two weeks is not recommended. As engine oil ages, it gradually loses its lubricating properties. Continuing to drive with degraded oil can lead to several issues, including increased metal-to-metal friction, sludge formation, reduced fuel efficiency, and, in severe cases, an increased risk of engine damage.
Get Your Ford Oil Changed at Bourgeois Motors Ford
Wondering where to get your oil change done? If you’re in Midland or nearby, Bourgeois Motors Ford is the first place you should visit. Give us a call at (705) 526-2278, swing by our service centre to chat with one of our service advisors, or simply fill out our online form to book your oil change service, today!