Just as the traffic warning signs shape how your journey should be, some factors indicate your oil issues. Regular oil changes are vital when it’s for caring about your car. And skipping the servicing part by ignoring the symptoms is inviting bigger problems. So, if your car’s been acting weird lately, there’s something wrong. But, how would you know that? For this reason, the following article brings you how to tell if you need an oil change.
Contents
Warning Signs Of An Oil Change
Excess Vehicle Exhaust
If you notice smoke trailing from the tailpipes of your vehicle, it’s a warning sign. Since modern cars do not release visible exhaust, your car needs an oil change. The motor oil may have turned too old to function well. Cracked gaskets are one sign of engine damage. So, visit your mechanic and get this symptom checked out soon.
Falling Oil Level
If the oil in your vehicle is topping off constantly, it’s among the warning signs. Deliberately letting the oil fall sometimes is a good way to enhance the period between oil changes. But if the oil leak is quicker, there’s an issue. Visit your nearest repair shop.
Increased Engine Noise
The lubrication of motor oil makes your vehicle run smoothly. But when the oil becomes old, thin, and poorly textured, the engine starts making more noise. If the engine oil is of bad quality, the vehicle makes a knocking sound in motion. Constant ticking may even lead to engine damage in some time.
Irregular Oil Texture
The color of your engine oil may not indicate anything about it. You can take a dipstick and check your engine oil’s color. In the case of a yellow background, the fuel is good. Even if the color is blackish, it is fine. Because the oil in your vehicle may become dark as the engine runs, so, that’s not a reliable indicator. However, in some time, the liquid may become gritty because of some small grime particles. So, as you check your oil levels, take a look at the consistency. You may need to replace the motor oil if there’s a lot of grit.
Low Oil level
You should keep checking your engine oil levels. Even if you top off between changing it, keep an eye on the reservoir. The oil level might read below the minimum value if you changed it long ago. Get your car serviced soon if the level due to an oil leak has gone down. If you keep driving when your vehicle needs an oil change, it can lead to engine damage. Especially in warm weather, it may stall or break down.
More Mileage Than Usual
You may take your vehicle for an engine oil change as you’re back from a long trip. But, it’s best to check the engine light and get the oil filled again. If the fuel isn’t changed, it can show some warning signs. So, when you put more mileage on your car than usual, go for an immediate change.
How To Know If Your Vehicle Needs An Oil Change?
Burning Smell From The Cabin
Lingering smells in your car from last night are great! But do you sometimes sense the smell of something burning? That sure isn’t pleasant. The two functions of motor oil include regulating the engine’s temperature and lubricate engine parts.
Dirty and old oil cannot keep your engine cool. So, if you don’t change the oil in your vehicle, the sharp burning smell may fill your cabin. Sometimes, the bad odor also indicates an oil leak.
Engine Light Flashes Up
Do take a look at the check engine light on your car dash. It is present for many mechanical reasons. In the absence of an oil change light, this light will flash. Also, in case of extreme oil conditions, the check engine light is among the warning signs. In the United States, any professional mechanic can read the sign. He will indicate if you need to change the oil in your vehicle. Otherwise, you can go through the owner’s manual and know when your car needs an oil shift.
Conclusion
So, when your car needs an oil change, remember to follow the road signs carefully. The engine oil will last better if you abide by the traffic control system. Your vehicle can run smoothly for a long time if you follow the rules and check your oil levels frequently.
