Signs Your Car Needs an Oil Change

Posted on February 1, 2022 in Oil Change

What Oil Does For Your Engine

One of the most common services you’ll need for your car is an oil change. Keeping the engine lubricated helps to keep its temperature down, improve its efficiency, and reduce the wear it gets from running. Not all cars need their oil changed at the same intervals, so you may not know when your personal vehicle needs it. If you aren’t sure when you need it, Big Apple Automotive in CA-18 can check your car for any services it needs. However, if you see any of these signs, it is a good sign that it is time.

Check Engine Light

The most common sign that your oil needs to be changed is the dashboard light that says to check the engine. Though this sign could mean many things, and it’s a good start to check the oil if the light does come on.

Engine Knocking

Without enough oil, the engine’s moving parts will create a lot of friction. It can cause loud noises and the overheating of your engine. This needs immediate attention.

Oil Leak Out of the Exhaust

Your exhaust should let out some thin smoke now and then, but if there is thick and colored smoke, it could mean that you have an oil leak. Not only will your oil run low and cause other issues, but you will need to get the leak fixed first.

Loss of Gas Mileage

Some drivers pay close attention to their mileage because they are on a tight budget, so they will want to optimize the time they change their oil. Changing the oil too soon may be a waste of good oil, and changing it too late will cause inefficiencies in the engine. Dirty oil will make the engine work harder, lower fuel efficiency, and reduce its lifespan. Either way, you’re going to have expenses, but in the long run, you will pay less to keep your car’s engine running well with fresh oil than dirty oil.

A good indicator of when to change your oil is when you start to notice these fuel efficiency losses. Newer cars may last up to 7,500 miles or every six months before needing an oil change, and older ones can be as inefficient as 3,000 miles before their oil needs changed. It will depend on what your owner’s manual suggests. How long your oil lasts can be increased if you have smooth driving conditions or lowered if you drive in a dusty environment or thick traffic. Big Apple Automotive in CA-18 can take care of your car when it needs routine oil service. Come visit us at 21775 CA Hwy 18, Apple Valley, CA 92307 or call us at 760-247-7255 for service.