Why Get Your Oil Changed?

If you want to keep your vehicle running in tip-top shape for years to come, you’ll want to get routine maintenance done. Service like oil changes can keep your vehicle running well and also extend your engine’s life so you can drive it longer. 

Oil is what keeps the engine lubricated and stops it from overheating. If the engine is the heart of your vehicle, the oil is the lifeblood that keeps it pumping.

What Are the Signs You Need an Oil Change?

To help you stay up to date on oil changes, we have a few key ways to tell when they’re needed. First, you could check your car’s manual. Most vehicles require an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. If you know when your last oil change was, you may be able to infer when the next one is due.

Of course, this isn’t the only way. Let’s check out a few signs you need an oil change.

Engine Oil Light

The engine oil light is a simple sign and easy to notice because you’ll see immediately if the oil light comes on or the words “Change Oil Soon” come up. The light typically looks like a genie lamp with a drop coming out of the end. When this light comes on, schedule your oil change. 

Noise Level or Smell

With all the small parts moving around the engine, it can get quite noisy. That’s where oil comes in. Clean oil provides a barrier to keep your engine quiet while you’re driving. If your engine is louder than normal, you might need new oil. Alternatively, if you smell a burning odor, this is also a sign to bring your vehicle in to our service center.

Color of the Oil

Another way to check is to look at the color of your oil. Clean oil is usually a light amber color. You can check the color of the oil in a few easy steps:

1. Let your car run for a few minutes and then turn it off.
2. Open the hood of your car and find your oil dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it off on a rag or cloth to see the color.

Over time, oil becomes dark and dirty. This is due to all the particles it collects from the engine. So, if your oil is a dark brown or black, you’re due for an oil change.