Driving with oil cap off

1996 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
160,000 MILES • V8 • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
LINCOLNLISAU
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I did an oil change about a month ago and apparently didn't put the cap back on... So I was wondering if this is going to cause some long term damage? My car is a 1996 Lincoln Towncar. It has always kinda choked while accelerating, but more so recently (I know... I know. My bad)
May 25, 2011 at 8:00 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
CJ MEDEVAC
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 11,004 POSTS
Oil cap is there to close off the crankcase--keep in oil--Keep dirt out--let the PCV system operate as it was meant to.

I really do not think it affected your engine at all, You do need to put it back on!

I think maybe you need to perform a tune up, for your engine's performance

If your check engine light is on, take it to a Popular Auto Parts Store....Normally they can read your codes for free.....light on, means there is a problem with you vehicle, and needs some attention.

You can return here with any code numbers, someone here, can steer you towards what needs attention.

The Medic
May 26, 2011 at 2:40 AM
Avatar
LINCOLNLISAU
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
awesome, that's about what I figured. Already planning another oil change this weekend. Thanks bud

-I had the codes checked and it's th O2 sensor, but oddly enough the guy at Advanced said not to buy the replacement parts... O_o (yes, I'm going to fix it anyway)
May 26, 2011 at 7:12 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
CJ MEDEVAC
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 11,004 POSTS
I feel sure you have more than one O2 sensor, did the code pin down which one needs attention?

Never heard 'em say don't buy the part---they having problems with them?

If your O2 is down, your vehicle runs in "closed loop" which is inefficient (MPG goes down, etc.)

He give any reason why?

The Medic
May 27, 2011 at 5:02 AM
Avatar
LINCOLNLISAU
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Hmm, he gave me a list of 3, I think. He said not to buy them (they were like $30) Because it might be an easy fix and to look online for the fix. But I'm busy and lost the list, so, I'll have to go get retested.
May 27, 2011 at 5:14 AM