An oil change service is one of the quickest yet most important services for your vehicle to keep it running effectively, efficiently, and at optimal performance. Most people know it’s time for an oil change when the “change oil” light comes on, but there are other industry standards and signs that tell you it’s time for an oil change.
That’s what we’ll be going over in this blog, but first…what is an oil change service?
An oil change service is the removal of old oil from the engine and refilling it with fresh engine oil. This oil serves to lubricate and cool your vehicle’s engine and its parts, and it is crucial to how your vehicle performs.
So, besides the “change oil” or “check engine” light, what are the signs you need an oil change service?
- Mileage: The industry standard for cars to get an oil change is between 3000 and 5000 miles. You can track mileage between oil changes to make sure you’re keeping things on schedule.
- Dirty Oil: Fresh engine oil is usually amber or golden in color. If your oil is brown, black, or frothy, then that’s a sign that your oil is no longer protecting your engine, and it’s time for an oil change service.
- Engine Noises: If your engine is making knocking, grinding, clicking, or humming sounds that are distinct from its usual purr, then there’s a good chance your oil isn’t properly lubricating the parts of your engine, and a change is needed.
- Smell: A strong odor of burning oil signifies either a leak or oil that needs to be replaced.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: When your engine isn’t being properly cooled and lubricated by oil, then your car’s performance will suffer, leading to poor fuel efficiency. If you’re able to recognize this, it’s a sign you need an oil change service.
- Shaking When Idling: When your oil needs to be changed, there can be friction between the parts of your engine. This can cause shaking when idling, so if you’re experiencing this symptom, then it’s time for an oil change service.
So, we encourage you to pay attention to these signs and bring your car to us for a quick and successful oil change!