Ran Without Oil

[screwedup]

Alright guys, I did a stupid thing. I ran my 2003 Buick Century without oil for 15-20 seconds on accident. I realize this isn't a truck but I'm a long time Chevy truck guy and figured there would be more response and lots of gm knowledge on here. I was changing the oil and accidently sparked the starter with my filter wrench. Well I freaked out and started the car to make sure I didn't fry something. Came to my senses and shut it off after 15-20 seconds. I realize this is incredidbly stupid on my part. I feel terrible. I've farmed and worked on equipment my whole life and know better. So I'm looking for an opinion on how bad it is. The filter was still on and full of oil. The drain plug was back in. It had been warmed up about 40 minutes before. 2003 3.1 liter with 28,000 miles.

[fggauvreau]

If it was only 15 to 20 seconds, there probably isn't much to be concerned about. I lived in the North for many years and when the temperature hit -45 deg F, I would notice the oil pressure at times at almost zero for at least 15 to 20 seconds until the oil would start to flow and then peg the needle until it warmed up.

[Nytemare]

If it was only 15 to 20 seconds, there probably isn't much to be concerned about. I lived in the North for many years and when the temperature hit -45 deg F, I would notice the oil pressure at times at almost zero for at least 15 to 20 seconds until the oil would start to flow and then peg the needle until it warmed up.

LOL....I pretty much responded with the same answer in his other post...

Great minds think alike I guess.

[Westlotorn]

I agree with the others above. No Damage done if you only ran 15-20 seconds and you heard no strange noises. I assume you idled and did not rev it up.

There is residual oil on the bearings and most running surfaces that would keep you alive longer than 20 seconds.

Additionally you mentioned oil was still in the filter. It would have scavanged some of that before you were totally out.

I would not worry at all and congratulate the quick shut down.

[Black02Silverado]

I would think it would be alright.

[ColoradoSkiCountry]

It is ok. Go treat the car to a wax job and she'll forgive ya and run forever. Just make sure you change that Death Cool (Dex-Cool) before 50,000 miles!

[Nytemare]

It is ok. Go treat the car to a wax job and she'll forgive ya and run forever. Just make sure you change that Death Cool (Dex-Cool) before 50,000 miles!

Its a 3100....it wont run forever... the old 60* 3.1...yes

the new series 2 and 3 3100's....75-100K and you'll have coolant in your oil...I know the dex-cool has lots to do with the 97-2002 failures...not sure about the 2002+ But swapping it out cant hurt anything.

First sign of this get the intake gaskets replaced...thats where they all leak...its a cheap job if caught early. The bottom end however...thats built to last.

[gregrocks89]

i use to own a 03 crf450r and i didnt bother even checking my oil before i went for a ride. On my way back i heard a bang and tons of ticking then the bike went to shit. so im like what the f***!! first thing i do look at the oil, that thing was bone dry. so eventually got it home, tore it apart and screwed the whole cylinder