Is your car making a rumbling noise? Do you not get enough power when you press on the gas pedal? Then you need to hop — or rather, drive — on down to the auto service shop. It's okay if you do not know what is wrong with your car, because that is the auto mechanic's job to figure out. They can take a look, run a few tests, and figure out what's going on. Then, they'll give you an estimate for the repairs. Your car will feel like a whole new machine once it's all fixed up! Learn more about that process as you read the articles we've curated here.
Signs It's Time to Get an Oil Change for Your Regular Driving Vehicle
Your vehicle is an essential part of your day-to-day life, and keeping it in top shape is crucial for both safe and efficient driving. One of the critical tasks that you, as a vehicle owner, need to perform is oil changes. Your car's oil helps to lubricate your engine and absorb heat, ensuring that your car is running smoothly. Over time, the oil can become contaminated, reducing its efficiency in protecting your engine. To keep your car running in top shape, you need to know the signs that it's time for an oil change.
Oil Level is Low
The easiest way to tell if your car needs an oil change is to check the oil level. You can do this by pulling out the dipstick and looking at the oil level. If it's low, you need a refill or an oil change. Your engine needs a certain amount of oil to run efficiently, so if the level is low, it can cause significant problems for your car. If you notice that your oil level is low, check your vehicle owner's manual to see what type of oil you should use and how much.
Dark Color
Clean oil has a light gold or amber color. Over time, as the oil breaks down and accumulates dirt, dust, and debris, the color darkens. If your oil has turned dark, it's an indicator that it needs a change. The darker the oil, the more contaminated it is, so don't wait too long before getting an oil change.
Unusual Engine Noises
If you start hearing odd sounds coming from your engine, it might be time for an oil change. As the oil breaks down over time, it loses its ability to lubricate the engine correctly, and metal parts may start rubbing up against each other. This friction can cause the engine to make unfamiliar sounds, such as knocking or grinding. These noises are an indication that your engine isn't running as smoothly as it should and requires an oil change.
Exhaust Smoke Emission
If you notice that your car is producing more smoke from the exhaust than usual, it could be due to old oil. Dirty oil can't absorb heat as well as fresh oil can, and as such, the extra heat can cause your engine to generate more smoke. In some cases, this smoke might even be blue, indicating the presence of burnt oil. If your car starts puffing out blue smoke, then it's time to head to the mechanic for an oil change.
As a vehicle owner, it's crucial that you keep your car well-maintained, and one way to do this is to schedule regular oil changes. By knowing the signs that your vehicle needs an oil change, you can prevent engine damage and keep your car running smoothly for years. If your oil needs changing, don't hesitate to visit the nearest mechanic for an oil change to keep your car in top condition. Remember, taking care of your car also means taking care of yourself and other passengers, so don't ignore the signs that your car needs care.
Contact an auto professional who offers services like oil changes to learn more.