When Is the Right Time to Change Your Oil?
An oil change is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your vehicle's engine. Since oil is the primary mechanism of lubrication in the engine, having fresh oil circulating around the components can help to absorb heat and lower the level of friction around the different working components. Failing to get an oil change in the first place when you need it can result in engine failure from overheating. Since you don't want to take the risk of engine failure, it is important to regularly get your oil changed. In this article, we'll discuss when the right time is to get an oil change as well as how you can tell when you need an oil change.
How Often Should You Be Getting an Oil Change?
While most manufacturers recommend getting your oil changed every 5,000 to 10,000 miles some experts will recommend every 3,000 miles. Your best option, however, is to consult your car owner's manual. Since every vehicle model is different according to the year it was produced as well as the trim level, each engine is also different. Additionally, your driving style and when you choose to drive can also play a role. For example, if you tend to drive in inconsistent conditions or adverse weather conditions, you may need to be changing your oil more often than someone who does not drive in unfavorable conditions.
Inconsistent driving behavior like extensive "stopping and starting", especially if you are in a city setting can result in the engine working overtime to maintain stable conditions. Extreme weather conditions like excessive humidity, heat, or freezing driving conditions can likewise cause the engine to work overtime or in unnatural ways. If you are in the middle of a move and are using your truck to tow trailers or other heavy objects, this can put additional stress on the engine and may cause it to overheat. Having the foresight to get an oil change more often if you drive in any of these conditions can make the difference between having a vehicle that is able to go the distance and one that performs at a subpar level, or worse, fails to perform at all.
How Do You Know You Need an Oil Change?
The telltale signs that you need an oil change are many and varied. Having an understanding of them can leave you hours, miles, and several hundred or thousands of dollars’ worth of headache. So, what are they?
Oil Change/Check Engine Light
The most obvious sign, but you would be surprised at how many people take it for granted. If there is not enough oil circulating in the engine system, then this light will come on. If you get to this point, then your car is warning you that it is not on an ideal pathway. Check the dipstick to see if oil levels are adequate in this case.
Oil Color
If you have a feeling that you need an oil change, then it is probably a good idea to check the engine. If you find that your oil is darker than the typical amber color present in healthy engines, you will need to change your oil. If you can’t see your dipstick through the oil, it is because the oil is dirty and needs to be replaced.
Oil Smell
If you can smell oil inside of your vehicle while the engine is turned on (or even if it is not), then this is a sign that your engine is overheating as a result of the greater friction from the components. This is could also be a sign that you are having an oil leak. In either case, you will need to get an oil replacement in order to provide greater lubrication to the engine system.
High Mileage
This is mainly a gut-feeling signal, but if you notice that you have been traveling quite a bit yet haven't changed your oil in quite some time, it could be a sign that you should. Although you might not be getting any physical symptoms yet, being prescient never hurt and could save you hours of headaches down the line.
If you are having any feeling that you need an oil change, don't wait! An expert technician can check it for you and will let you know what you need to do. If you are interested in having someone check it for you, contact us at 740-218-5308 today!