5 Hints You Need an Oil Change Your Car is Trying to Tell You
Engine oil plays an essential role in reducing the strain and wear of internal parts and components. While there may be some disagreement regarding the best time to change motor oil operating a vehicle that may be in need of an oil change can reduce the operational lifespan of the engine and increase the risk of a breakdown or other mechanical issue. Learning to spot the signs that oil levels may be low is not a concern that drivers should take lightly.
1. Mileage
The vehicle’s manufacturer provides guidelines for how long a car can be driven before the oil needs to be replaced. Additional information may need to be taken into account depending on factors like the type of oil being used or even the overall age and condition of the engine. Speaking with a qualified mechanic can also be helpful, especially when it comes to vehicles that may not be in the best condition or that are more prone to suffer a breakdown in the event that they are improperly maintained. In situations where the total mileage since the last oil change is unknown, it is usually best to go ahead and change the oil, just to be on the safe side.
2. Oil Looks Dirty of Discolored
Vehicle owners would be wise to inspect the condition of their motor oil on a weekly basis. Oil levels that fall below a certain point due to a leak within the system can be a serious problem. Motor oil that has taken on a darker coloration, or that may look dirty due to the presence of contaminants may need to be changed regardless of the vehicle’s mileage.
3. Smoke From the Exhaust
An oil leak can range from a minor nuisance that may not even be worth the time and expense to track down and repair to a major problem that needs to be dealt with immediately. Smoke from the tail pipe can indicate that a leak within the system is causing the engine to burn oil. Using the dipstick to inspect oil levels or adding oil to the engine can be of paramount importance.
4. Oil Light
The check oil light located on the vehicle’s dashboard is designed to indicate that oil pressure has fallen below a certain level. While there are other issues, such as a faulty oil pump, which may cause the light to turn on, low-levels of engine oil is the most common cause. Checking oil levels, adding more oil to the system or undertaking a complete oil change in response to a check-oil light can be essential concerns. Taking the car to a mechanic may also be a good idea, especially if the light turns back on following an oil change.
5. Engine Noises
Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine which reduces the mechanical strain and heat caused by friction. Low oil can result in damaged parts which are no longer able to operate properly. Engine knock and other sounds that may indicate a problem is present may indicate the need for a prompt oil change or a more thorough mechanical assessment.
Changing the engine oil is one of the most important aspects of basic vehicle maintenance. Finding a good mechanic or learning to perform their own oil change can go a long way towards ensuring that vehicle’s are able to last as long as possible. Recognizing the signs that a car may be overdue for an oil change can help to ensure that other problems are less likely to develop.