6 Warning Signs your Car Needs Oil

Changing the oil in your car is a quick and painless procedure when performed at an auto service center like the one at Jim Browne Dade City Chevy. Keeping the engine lubricated with oil is vitally important to your car’s well-being. Clean oil improves the performance of your car and extends the life of the engine, so why delay?

A lot of drivers rely on mileage as a gauge for oil replacement, but other factors come into play as well. The quality of the oil, the age of the car, and how the car is driven are also important oil health indicators. Fresh, clean oil keeps the engine clean and healthy. Eventually, the oil will break down and have difficulty performing its duties. Once oil breakdown begins, your car likely starts exhibiting warning signs like those below.

1. Oil Change Light or Check Engine
It’s the most obvious alert. The oil change light in your vehicle will illuminate when there’s not enough oil in the system, so check the dipstick to see the height. In the worst-case scenario, the check engine light will illuminate. This means things have gotten bad enough that the engine is at risk of damage due to lack of lubrication or other problems.

2. Dark, Dirty Oil
Clean oil is lighter amber in color. With use, it becomes darker. It will not be obvious when this begins to happen, so you must be vigilant and check your engine oil at least once a month. To do this, remove the dipstick and wipe it off before returning it to the oil tank. Now take it out a second time. If you cannot see the dipstick, it is time for an oil change.

3. Engine Noise and Knocking
Oil provides a protective layer between engine parts, avoiding metal-to-metal brushing and keeping the engine quiet. If your oil isn’t doing its job properly, the engine noise will increase. In severe cases, you may even hear knocking or rumbling sounds that signify your engine is tearing itself apart bit by bit through lack of lubrication.

4. Excessive Mileage
If you’ve traveled a lot of miles, consider whether you need an oil change sooner than your normal schedule. Every car is different, but most should have their oil changed every 2-3,000 miles. Check your owner’s handbook for specific guidelines.

5. Car Smells of Oil Inside
If you smell oil inside the car, it can mean a leak. If you also smell gas or exhaust fumes, the vehicle could be overheating. Regardless, schedule maintenance immediately.

6. Exhaust Smoke?
Some clear vapor will always come out of your gas-fueled car’s tailpipe, but if it changes to smoke, it’s time for a check-up. You may have a faulty engine part or an oil leak.

Be Sure to Change Your Oil Promptly
Oil changes are simple and inexpensive, and one of the things you can do to keep your car from having problems. The right level and quality of oil will result in fewer repairs down the road.