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Can old oil cause a car not to start?

I haven't been very good about keeping up with oil changes my last few times. Can old oil cause a car not to start?

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Melanie Mergen · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Can old oil cause a car not to start? While it might take a while, yes it could.
Motor oil is essential when it comes to keeping your engine lubricated. While your oil filter will sift through as much as it can, dirt, debris, and particles like metal shavings can build up in engine oil, increasing wear and tear on your engine.
As the oil gets thicker over time, it can also become harder to circulate the way it needs to.
Let old oil circulate through your vehicle long enough and often enough, and it’s possible you could end up with serious (and expensive) engine troubles. However, no or low engine oil levels are more likely to cause a car not to start than old oil is.
Simple
car maintenance
like routine oil changes will ensure something like this won’t happen.
As you’re getting back on track with your oil changes, it might also be a good idea to review your
car insurance
coverage to make sure it’s still working for you. If you need better coverage at a better rate, the
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MORE: How to make your car last longer
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