How do you know when you need oil change?
Warning Signs To Get An Oil Change
Changing your oil is one of the regular tasks you should do for a smooth-running car. Good and clean oil improves your car's performance and increases its lifespan. Many people depend solely on mileage to determine when they should change their oil, but factors like car age and oil quality affect the timing. So how do you know when you need oil change?
Engine noises and knocking
Oil usually offers a protective layer between engine parts, avoiding metal-to-metal friction. If you start hearing knocking or rumbling noises from the engine, the engine parts are rubbing against each other from lack of lubrication.
You might also experience ticking noises from the engine, indicating that the oil takes longer to get distributed throughout the engine when it starts.
Dark or dirty oil
Clean oil usually has an amber and slightly translucent color. Over time, it fills with residue particles from the engine, making it dark and almost black. You can check the color of your oil by removing your dipstick and wiping it on a clean paper towel.
Exhaust smoke
It is normal to see translucent vapor coming from the exhaust pipe. However, if you notice gray or blue smoke, it indicates dirty oil or an oil leak, meaning you should get the engine checked.
Burning smells
In addition to lubricating engine parts, oil also helps regulate its temperature. When the oil gets dirty, it becomes difficult to regulate the engine temperature. That results in the engine overheating, causing burnt smells. It could also indicate an oil leak, so you should get your oil changed.
Warning light
Some cars have a specific light on the dashboard indicating the time to get an oil change. Others have a 'check engine' or 'maintenance required' light that blinks when you should change the oil.
However, these buttons can sometimes indicate other issues. So how do you know when you need oil change? Check the consistency by removing the dipstick. It is time for an oil change if it is thick and grainy.
Before taking any long trip, especially during the hot months, it is essential to get an oil change. You can reduce the cost by looking for oil change coupons. Most car dealerships offer oil change coupons with different discounts and for various oil changes.
Have questions about how do you know when you need oil change? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Express Auto Service & Repair today to schedule an appointment and ask about our oil change coupons. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
Warning Signs To Get An Oil Change
Changing your oil is one of the regular tasks you should do for a smooth-running car. Good and clean oil improves your car's performance and increases its lifespan. Many people depend solely on mileage to determine when they should change their oil, but factors like car age and oil quality affect the timing. So how do you know when you need oil change?
Engine noises and knocking
Oil usually offers a protective layer between engine parts, avoiding metal-to-metal friction. If you start hearing knocking or rumbling noises from the engine, the engine parts are rubbing against each other from lack of lubrication.
You might also experience ticking noises from the engine, indicating that the oil takes longer to get distributed throughout the engine when it starts.
Dark or dirty oil
Clean oil usually has an amber and slightly translucent color. Over time, it fills with residue particles from the engine, making it dark and almost black. You can check the color of your oil by removing your dipstick and wiping it on a clean paper towel.
Exhaust smoke
It is normal to see translucent vapor coming from the exhaust pipe. However, if you notice gray or blue smoke, it indicates dirty oil or an oil leak, meaning you should get the engine checked.
Burning smells
In addition to lubricating engine parts, oil also helps regulate its temperature. When the oil gets dirty, it becomes difficult to regulate the engine temperature. That results in the engine overheating, causing burnt smells. It could also indicate an oil leak, so you should get your oil changed.
Warning light
Some cars have a specific light on the dashboard indicating the time to get an oil change. Others have a 'check engine' or 'maintenance required' light that blinks when you should change the oil.
However, these buttons can sometimes indicate other issues. So how do you know when you need oil change? Check the consistency by removing the dipstick. It is time for an oil change if it is thick and grainy.
Before taking any long trip, especially during the hot months, it is essential to get an oil change. You can reduce the cost by looking for oil change coupons. Most car dealerships offer oil change coupons with different discounts and for various oil changes.
Have questions about how do you know when you need oil change? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Express Auto Service & Repair today to schedule an appointment and ask about our oil change coupons. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
