Signs Your Vehicle Needs An Oil Change

One of the most important things you can do as a car owner is to get your vehicle’s oil changed regularly. It is essential for your engine to function properly. Neglecting it will cause the oil to break down and stop working, leading to an unreliable, troublesome, and dangerous car. To avoid this, look for oil change and inspection near me and have it changed.

What Is Motor Oil?

Motor oil is a lubricant that prevents metal parts from tearing each other apart or welding together. It helps in engine maintenance by: 

  • Reducing friction, making the engine run smoothly and last longer.
  • Removing dirt, sludge, and other deposits, preventing blockages. 
  • Cooling hot, friction-filled engine parts.
  • Reducing fuel combustion-induced corrosion.
  • Lowering fuel and CO2 emissions. 

The Importance Of Regular Oil Change

Motor oil plays a huge role in your car’s efficiency. It distributes heat, lubricates the engine’s working components, and lowers friction. Neglecting oil change can result in sludge buildup, premature wear down of components, and even engine failure! 

Changing your engine oil regularly will keep it running smoothly and efficiently for longer, ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained. 

Top Signs Your Car Needs An Oil Change

  • Warning On The Dashboard

A warning sign on the dashboard indicates that your vehicle needs an oil change. Nowadays, vehicles have sensors that track several engine parameters, such as oil level and quality. If your dashboard’s oil pressure or level warning light comes on, it’s a sign that something is wrong with your oil. 

  • Dark Or Dirty Engine Oil

You can easily tell if your engine oil needs changing by looking at its color and consistency. When it’s fresh, motor oil is usually transparent amber. With time, it can get cloudy and dirty from dirt and contaminants. 

Here’s how you can check your oil: 

  • Find and pull out the dipstick. 
  • Wipe it clean. 
  • Put the dipstick back in and take it out again to see how the oil looks.

If the oil appears thick, dark, or gritty, it’s time to change it.

  • Strange Engine Sounds

If your vehicle makes strange noises while driving, such as grinding, rumbling, or banging, it might be time for an oil change. It usually happens when the oil becomes old and no longer lubricates the moving parts.

  • Excessive Exhaust Smoke

Excessive exhaust smoke of different colors can indicate a serious issue with the oil. 

  • Blue smoke is a common indicator of oil combustion within the engine. It can be caused by damaged piston rings or valve seals. 
  • If you notice white smoke, it could be caused by a burst head gasket, which causes the coolant to mix with the oil. 
  • Black smoke indicates an excessively rich fuel mixture caused by using old oil. 

Immediately check and replace your oil if you detect any strange exhaust smoke.

  • Drop-In Fuel Efficiency 

Your car’s gas mileage can take a hit if the oil is not enough or too old. It takes more fuel to get power out of an engine that isn’t well-lubricated. If you are visiting the gas station stops more frequently, then it’s time for oil replacement. To keep your vehicle running efficiently and save money, ensure the oil is clean and fresh.

  • Vibrations 

If the oil gets too thick, it will stop lubricating the engine properly, causing vibrations while driving or idling. If driving quality changes, consult an automobile technician as soon as possible!

  • Smell Of Burning

Something is wrong if you sense a burning smell inside your vehicle. In most cases, the cause is the engine overheating. If the oil is unclean or there isn’t enough, the engine won’t stay cool. An oil leak could also be the cause of the burning smells.

  • Difficulties In Shifting Gears

Whether you’re driving a manual or automatic transmission, shifting gears within the engine allows you to speed up and slow down. If you see any irregularities when shifting gears, then it may be time to change the oil.

Summing Up 

If you want your car to run well, last a long time, and save gas, you must change the oil regularly. Keep an eye out for warning signs and search for oil change and inspection near me to avoid expensive engine repairs. 

Looking to get your oil changed? Book your appointment at Premium Auto Services for high-quality and affordable services. Our experts can do the job and ensure that your car runs great!


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