Standard auto advice used to be that you needed to get your vehicle’s oil changed once every three months or every 3,000 miles. Over time, the recommended oil change for a vehicle has increased to 5,000 miles, but many still go by the three month or 3,000 miles rule of thumb. No matter what you use as your rule of thumb for a vehicle to know when it needs an oil change, there are a few signs your vehicle needs an oil change to pay attention for.
Engine is Knocking
A louder engine or knocking in the engine is often a sign that your vehicle needs an oil change. The sound isn’t extravagant in most cases, but it’s a noticeable difference. When the engine oil starts to break down it no longer does its job to provide a lubricant between the parts of your engine and in turn, the engine starts to knock or make loud noises.
Dark or Dirty Looking Oil
Engine oil for your vehicle is an amber color by nature, so when it starts to look dark or dirty, it may be time for your vehicle to get an oil change. Remove the dipstick from your engine, wipe off the oil, place dipstick back into the engine and pull out. This process will allow you to see the color and level of oil in your vehicle so that you can determine if it’s too dark or dirty looking.
Oil Change Light
This light is a good indicator that your engine oil is low, but in some vehicles, you’ll have a light that goes on telling you to change the oil. This is an indicator that you need to call and schedule your vehicle’s oil change soon, to avoid any extra damage to your vehicle’s engine. Your check engine light could come on if you’re in a more dire need to get an oil change.
Oil Smell Inside
You shouldn’t ever smell oil inside your vehicle. If you do then that could be a big sign that you have an oil leak. If your vehicle has an oil leak, chances are that you need to have an oil change as soon as possible so that a professional can peak at your engine to ensure the oil leak isn’t something more serious than simply needing to get a new filter and oil into the vehicle.
Excessive Mileage
As I stated before, most cars are recommended to have an oil change every three months or 3,000 miles, but with newer cars, you can go 5,000 miles. If you have found that you have excessive mileage on your vehicle, then it’s time to schedule that oil change with your local dealership service center to avoid other mechanical problems from old, dirty oil in your vehicle.
These are just 5 signs your vehicle needs an oil change shared to help drivers be aware of their vehicle’s oil levels, mileage, and signs that an oil change is needed. Use these signs as a basis for calling your car dealerships service center to inquire about scheduling your next or first oil change service.
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