There are nearly 284 million cars on the road today, most of them needing regular oil changes.
If you own a vehicle, it is important to know when to get an oil change, and some signs of a car in need of new oil are more obvious than others.
Keep reading to discover four common signs that you are in need of an oil change.
1. A Burning Smell
One of the most common signs that you need new oil is a burning smell inside of your car. Many car owners get a whiff of a burning smell from time to time, but if the smell persists, it may be time to check your oil.
When your car is full of old or dirty oil, it can’t keep your engine cool, causing the oil to burn and omit a foul smell. This could also indicate an oil leak, which should be fixed as soon as possible.
2. Odd Oil Texture
Checking your oil texture is a less-than-obvious way to see if you need an oil change. To check the consistency, you will want to pop the hood and take a look at the color and texture of the oil on the dipstick. If the oil is chunky or grainy, then it’s probably time to change it.
3. A Dashboard Light Is On
The dashboard light is one of the most obvious signs that it is time to change the engine oil. Some vehicles have a specific oil light, while others will just say ‘maintenance required’ or ‘check engine.’ To see if it is your oil to blame, take it to a local repair shop to have them check it out.
Another thing that will strongly indicate whether the light is on for oil-related reasons is to check your window sticker. Many repair shops will give you a sticker when they change your oil, telling you when to come back for another chance. If you are close to this date and your light comes on, it is probably time for an oil change.
4. Irregular Noises From Engine
The oil keeps your engine lubricated, so if it is not working properly, parts and pieces in your car may grind against each other and make unpleasant noises. If you hear banging or clanking noises coming from your engine, you should change your oil to prevent any long-term damage to your vehicle.
Why Are Oil Changes Important?
An oil change is part of preventive maintenance for cars. If you ignore routine oil changes, you run the risk of voiding your car’s warranty, lowering your resale value, or even complete engine failure.
Know When to Get an Oil Change
Knowing when to get an oil change is an essential part of owning a vehicle. The oil keeps your car running smoothly and efficiently, and ignoring oil maintenance can have detrimental consequences.
If you found this article informative, then feel free to check out the rest of our blog for more automotive content.
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