Most People Don’t Realize This $10 Mistake Could Cost You a $3,000 Repair

We get it — life’s busy. Between work, family, and errands, your car maintenance probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list. But there’s one small, simple thing drivers skip all the time — and it can turn into a huge (and expensive) problem down the road.

That $10 mistake?

👉 Skipping your oil change.

Why Oil Changes Matter More Than You Think

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, keeps the engine cool, and prevents metal components from grinding together.

When oil gets old, it breaks down and becomes thick and dirty — almost like sludge. Instead of protecting your engine, it starts clogging it up. Over time, that sludge buildup can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Replacing your oil: $50–$80.Replacing your engine: $3,000–$7,000.

You do the math.

What Happens When You Skip an Oil Change

Here’s what we see all too often at H. Smith Automotive:

1. Oil level drops — low lubrication = more friction = higher heat.

2. Engine parts wear faster — bearings, pistons, and valves take the hit.

3. Sludge builds up — oil passages clog, starving the engine of oil.

4. The engine seizes or fails completely.

All because someone thought, “I can go another 1,000 miles.”

 How to Avoid the $3,000 Mistake

✅ Change your oil every 3,000–5,000 miles (or as recommended by your manufacturer).

✅ Check your oil level monthly. It takes 2 minutes — and can save you thousands.

✅ Use the right oil type. Synthetic, conventional, or high-mileage — it matters.

✅ Watch for warning signs:

• Burning smell

• Knocking noise from the engine

• Oil light on your dashboard

If you notice any of these, don’t wait. Bring your car in before a small issue becomes a big one.

The Real-Life Example: Tar-Thick Sludge After 3 Years

One of our recent customers came in with a car that hadn’t had an oil change in over 3 years. When we drained the oil, the “oil” that came out wasn’t oily at all — it was the consistency of tar. Thick, sticky, black sludge that made the engine barely drip.

It took forever (we’re talking hours) just to get it to flow out. Every port, passage, and valve looked coated in grime. The engine internals were suffocating.

By the time the car made it to us, the damage had already been done. We had two realistic paths forward — but neither was cheap.

💰 The Two Options: Clean It vs. Replace It

Option A: Try to Clean / De-sludge / Rebuild the Engine

• Engine cleaning / sludge removal: Depending on severity and design, shops may quote $600–$1,000+ just for the de-sludging process. Some dealers list special de-sludging treatments for $50–$150, but those are usually for mild buildup, not tar levels.

• Partial rebuild / refresh: If key components are still salvageable (cylinders, pistons, bearings, etc.), a rebuild might cost $2,500 to $4,000 (parts + labor) for many models.

• But here’s the risk: even after spending these thousands, one or more parts could still be compromised. You may still have lingering issues or weak points from the sludge damage.

Option B: Replace the Engine (Used, Rebuilt, or New)

• Used/salvage engine + install: Parts can run from $600 to $4,000+, with total installed cost (parts + labor) ranging perhaps $1,800 to $6,000 depending on vehicle, condition, and labor.

• Rebuilt / remanufactured engine: Often between $3,500 to $9,000 installed. These engines are rebuilt to specifications, with many components replaced to improve reliability.

• Brand new / OEM engine: The priciest route. For many vehicles, a new engine plus all labor can push into $6,000 to $15,000+ depending on make, complexity, and location.

So for our customer, the actual quote for replacement was in the $7,000–$10,000 range (new/rebuilt route), or trying the cleaning + partial rebuild path was estimated to cost $2,500–$5,000 depending on what parts had to be replaced.

At that point, the customer had to weigh: pay a few thousand hoping the engine holds, or invest more for a stronger long-term fix.

Let’s Keep Your Car (and Wallet) Happy

At H. Smith Automotive, we’re not just here to fix cars — we’re here to help you avoid costly repairs. A quick, affordable oil change every few months keeps your car healthy, reliable, and safe for every mile ahead.

📅 Schedule your next oil change today — it’s the easiest way to protect your investment. 480-331-9295