September 13, 2022
This Is What Happens If Your Car Runs Out of Oil

Photo by Skica911 under Pixabay License
Engine oil is what keeps your car running smoothly and lasting longer. In this article, you’ll learn why checking your oil often is key, how dirty or low oil can cause serious engine damage, and what signs mean it’s time to change your oil. Plus, if you have an old or unwanted car, you’ll find out how donating it can help veterans and even save you money.
Waiting too long to change your oil is a big no– no. It’s because when your oil gets dirty, it loses its viscosity, which will cause parts in your engine to wear at a faster rate and become actively corrosive.
You’ll know if you have dirty oil when you experience sluggish acceleration and poor fuel economy.
Your Car Just Ran Out of Oil. What Happens Next?
You will have a bigger problem if your engine runs out of oil. No car owner wants their engine to fail. Oil acts like a lubricant that helps engine parts move smoothly. If your engine runs out of oil, its parts will grind together and seize up.
So, what happens when your engine seizes? The parts that spin and move back and forth will stop working. This can damage your engine badly. If your engine is damaged, fixing it could cost you a lot of money.
The problem is, you might not get a warning that your engine is low on oil until it’s too late. If that happens, you might need to think about buying a new engine or even a new car.–
That’s why you should check your oil often. Look for leaks that might be draining it. If you find a leak, take your car to a repair shop. They can fix it and refill your engine with the right amount of oil.
Checking your oil takes just a little time and can save you a lot of money. It also helps you keep your car running longer.
What Are The Signs That Your Oil Needs To Be Changed?
You should change your oil every 3,000 to 6,000 miles or about every three to six months. This depends on your car and how you drive. Check your owner’s manual to see the best schedule for your car.
In addition to that, here’s what to look out for:
- Strong oil odor from your car
- Loud engine noises
- Exhaust smoke
- Low oil levels
- Black and murky oil
- Engine lights are on
If you notice any of these signs, be sure to contact a professional mechanic right away.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Engine Oil Leaks?
Engine oil leaks can stem from several common sources. Worn– out gaskets and seals, especially the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket, are frequent culprits. A degraded oil filter or improperly installed drain plug can also allow oil to escape. Over time, poor maintenance practices – such as infrequent oil changes or using the wrong oil grade – can degrade components and increase leak risk. Environmental conditions like extreme heat can cause rubber seals to crack, especially in older automobiles.
Regular inspections and timely oil changes are essential to prevent leaks and maintain both engine safety and overall transportation reliability.
How Far Can I Drive Safely After the Oil Light Comes On?
The warning light typically means your oil pressure has dropped to a level that could affect engine performance. Though your vehicle might still be running, driving much farther risks increasing wear or triggering a breakdown. To protect your automobile, pull over safely and check your oil level – and refer to your maintenance manual for next steps.
If the oil pressure light specifically comes on – often red and shaped like an old– fashioned oil can – it signals a critical issue. In that case, continuing to drive could severely damage your engine within minutes.
Taking immediate action can protect your transportation investment and avoid costly repairs. Regular maintenance helps ensure the oil light stays off in the first place.
What Immediate Steps Should I Take If My Car Runs Out of Oil While Driving?
If your car runs out of oil while on the road, take these steps immediately to protect your engine and personal safety. First, turn on your hazard lights and safely pull over to the side of the road. Turn off the engine to prevent further damage. Do not attempt to continue driving – even short distances can cause harm. Call for roadside assistance or a tow service and have your automobile taken to a trusted mechanic. If you have spare oil and the skills to add it safely, do so only after verifying the oil level.
Preventing future incidents comes down to regular maintenance and oil checks to ensure your transportation stays dependable.
What Are the Long– Term Consequences of Repeatedly Running Low on Oil?
Consistently running low on oil can lead to devastating effects on your automobile’s engine. Oil lubricates internal components, and without adequate levels, metal parts rub together, causing increased friction, overheating, and premature wear. Over time, this can result in warped cylinders, damaged crankshafts, and even complete engine failure. Additionally, oil starvation reduces fuel efficiency and increases emissions, undermining your vehicle’s overall transportation performance and environmental impact. Repeated low– oil conditions also indicate a lapse in maintenance, which can decrease resale value and shorten the vehicle’s lifespan.
For your safety and your engine’s longevity, monitor oil levels regularly and address any leaks or consumption issues promptly.
How Can You Dispose of Your Unwanted Auto?
Do you have a damaged car or one you don’t use anymore? If it is just taking up space in your garage, donate it to Veteran Car Donations. We will put your vehicle to good use by helping veterans in your community who face tough challenges.
Our team will sell your donated vehicle through an auction and use the proceeds to support the life improvement programs for veterans of our IRS– certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit partners. These nonprofits help veterans who are homeless, struggling to find good jobs, or dealing with disabilities. They also support those facing serious health problems, including mental health issues.–
The money we provide helps them offer housing, financial help, family support, jobs, free health care, therapy, scholarships, and more to veterans in need.
When you donate, you get valuable rewards. You don’t even have to drive your vehicle to us. We will tow it for free. We can collect your vehicle anywhere in the country.
Your gift will also entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.
Besides the rewards, you’ll feel great knowing you helped those who risked their lives to protect us and our freedoms.
Since we’re willing to accept nearly all vehicle types, feel free to donate your unwanted car, truck, van, motorcycle, snowmobile, or even your granddad’s old motorized wheelchair.
Head over to our FAQs page to get to know our quick and convenient donation process and other important information you might want to know. If you have questions and concerns, feel free to call us through our 24/7 toll– free hotline at 877– 594– 5822 or write to us here.
Give Your Dusty Car a Worthy Purpose Today!

Photo by zhuzichun under Pexels License
Why hold on to a vehicle that’s just gathering dust in your garage when you can use it to enable our hurting heroes to live decent and dignified lives? Donate it to Veteran Car Donations by calling 877-594-5822 or filling out our secure online donation form now!
Last Updated: July 1st, 2025