Are You Wondering How Do You Know When Your Car Needs An Oil Change?

It’s fairly common knowledge that treating your vehicle to regular oil changes is one of the most significant ways to help extend the life of your engine and enhance its operating performance. You may be wondering how do you know when your car needs an oil change. If you follow the recommended oil change interval for your car (listed in your owner’s manual), you will help prevent excessive engine wear and tear, plus optimize your engine’s performance level. Fresh, clean oil keeps the engine lubricated as well as protects it against overheating.

Some drivers think they will save money by extending the time interval between oil changes, but an oil change service is relatively simple and inexpensive when compared to the cost of an engine repair. Ask your auto shop if they offer oil change coupons to help make frequent oil change services more affordable.

So how do you know when your car needs an oil change? Over time, oil deteriorates and loses its effectiveness. If you start to experience one or more of the warning signs below, it’s time for an oil change!

1. Oil is dark and dirty – Clean oil is an amber color and you should be able to see the dipstick through the oil. Over time, the oil gets dirty and darkens from the particles it collects from the engine.
2. Loud and noisy engine – You may start to hear knocking, rumbling, and even roaring coming from the engine. The oil is not lubricating parts as well as it should.
3. Oil change warning light comes on – An illuminated oil change light on the dash panel indicates that the oil level is too low. You may get by with adding a quart or two of oil but if the oil is dark, it’s time to change the oil.
4. Smoke from the Muffler – If you notice smoke coming from the muffler (not the translucent vapor in cold temperatures), there could be an oil leak or faulty parts in the engine.
5. Smell of Oil – This could mean that oil is leaking. If the smell is mixed with the smell of gas or exhaust fumes, your vehicle is probably overheating and oil is burning in the exhaust area. This can cause serious engine damage or even ignite a fire.

Need to know more about how do you know when your car needs an oil change? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for oil change coupons and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Tweet