5 Signs Your Oil Needs Changing

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Oil changes are a simple service appointment, but when performed regularly, they can help to extend your engine’s longevity and enhance its overall performance. So why do drivers delay or choose not to change their oil? Unfortunately, most people rely on mileage rather than oil change warning signs to let them know when it’s time to schedule a service appointment. As a result, their vehicles end up suffering from an overdue oil change longer than they should. At Montgomeryville Nissan, we want to help your car run like new for as long as possible. So we’ve created your guide to the top five signs that you need an oil change to make sure that you get your vehicle the care it deserves when it needs it most.

1. Dark and Dirty Oil

Clean oil is an amber color. After a while, the fluid darkens and gets dirty from all of the particles it collects from the engine. You won’t know exactly when its color starts to turn, so we recommend checking the condition of your oil every month. To do this, remove the dipstick from your engine, wipe it off, and put it back in. When you remove it again, if you can see the stick through the oil, the fluid is fine. However, if it’s thick and dark, schedule an oil change at our service center near Bucks County, PA right away.

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2. Louder Engine Noise and Knocking

Clean oil provides a thin barrier between engine parts that protects against metal-on-metal contact and keeps your engine quiet on your travels. However, when the fluid starts to break down, it doesn’t lubricate the parts as well so you’ll hear louder engine noise. If you ignore the increased engine sounds, you’ll start to hear knocking, rumbling, and even roaring to let you know that your vehicle is in dire need of an oil change.

3. Oil Change or Check Engine Light

An illuminated oil change light on your vehicle’s dashboard indicates that there’s too little oil in the system. So once you see this light, check your oil level with the dipstick and if it’s insufficient, change your oil as soon as possible. In more serious instances, your check engine light will turn on to let you know your vehicle is at high risk of engine damage due to the lack of fluid or damaged parts.

4. Exhaust Smoke

It’s common to see a translucent vapor coming out your tailpipe when the weather gets colder. But if you notice smoke being emitted, check your oil because there could be an oil leak in your engine. Smoke can also indicate faulty parts in your engine. So if you see there’s enough oil in your vehicle, have a professional perform diagnostics to pinpoint the problem and repair it immediately.

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5. Oil Smell Inside the Cabin

Getting a whiff of oil inside the cabin is a huge warning sign. Generally, the odor is strong and means there’s a leak. However, this scent can also be mixed with the smell of gas or exhaust fumes. This indicates that your vehicle is overheating and oil is burning into the exhaust area. An overheating engine can cause serious damage to your car and even ignite a fire. So once you smell oil inside your car, get an oil change right away.

Bonus Oil Change Warning Sign: Excessive Mileage

In addition to the top five warning signs listed above, you also want to keep an eye on your odometer. As stated, most drivers rely on it to determine when it’s time to get an oil change, but many don’t know that there are different oil change schedules for certain vehicles. Generally, we recommend most cars have their oil changed every 3,000 miles or three months, whichever comes first. If you just bought a car, then you should schedule an oil change every 6,000 miles or six months. While these recommendations are good guidelines, it’s best to check your owner’s manual for a more exact oil change and maintenance schedule for your vehicle.

Simple but Beneficial

Again, oil changes are a simple service, but they’re one of the most beneficial things you can do for your vehicle. Staying on top of routine oil changes by taking your car to our service center near Bucks County, PA helps to keep your car healthy and extend its life. But most importantly, it prevents your car from excessive wear and tear and damage. And in turn, you’ll be able to avoid expensive repairs and keep more money in your wallet. Related Post: What Type of Oil Does Your Car Need?

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Schedule an Oil Change Now!

Understanding the five signs that your car needs an oil change can give you years of exceptional performance. So use our guide to help you identify common oil change warning signs and when you spot one, be sure to schedule a service appointment right away. Lansdale Doylestown, PA can schedule an oil change by contacting Montgomeryville Nissan. Our team of trained associates can provide your vehicle with the quality care it deserves to ensure it runs well for years to come.