5 Signs Your Oil Needs Changing
It’s important that you get the most out of your vehicle while you’re trekking around the streets of San Diego, Kearny Mesa, and Chula Vista, CA. However, when the time comes for automotive maintenance and service, you’ll want to follow through with it to make sure that your vehicle gets everything it needs. The most common type of service happens to also be one of the most important: the oil change!
At Norm Reeves Toyota San Diego, we’re here to help you. We’re going to list out the five signs your oil needs changing so you can be aware of when you’ll need to schedule a service appointment.
Why Is Oil Important for My Car?
When it comes to the health, efficiency, and performance of your vehicle, oil is a vital component. It helps by lubricating the moving metal parts in your engine to ensure that they work smoothly. Oil also helps cool the parts, and it even keeps things clean by absorbing the debris and grease in your engine.
However, after enough time, your oil will start to get darker and thicker. It will even begin breaking down due to the prolonged exposure to your engine’s heat. When oil reaches this state, it’s imperative that you have it changed as soon as possible.
5 Oil Change Signs
Decreased Efficiency—when your oil is dark and sludge-like, it will result in a less efficient performance. You’ll notice that it’s beginning to act sluggish, and your fuel economy will start to decrease.- Loud Engine Performance—your vehicle will start to make louder noises when you’re out on the road. It will magnify the usual engine sounds, mainly because the parts aren’t being lubricated as well as they usually are when the oil is fresh. You may also hear knocking sounds from under the hood.
- Heavy Exhaust Smoke—if you notice that there’s gray/bluish smoke coming from your exhaust, it could be a sign that you need fresh oil, as it indicates a possible leak. When oil drips on hot engine components, it will begin to sizzle and smoke.
- Low or Dark Oil—when you check your dipstick, you’ll want to look for two things: color (viscosity) and the level. If the oil is dark, it means it’s due for a change. If it’s low, it means that you’ll need more.
- Oil Change Light—your vehicle is equipped with an on-board diagnostics system, and it will signal you when it’s time for an oil change. Generally, it keeps track of the mileage since your last oil change, and when you approach the time for your next oil change, you’ll see this light appear.
Get Your Oil Changed Today
If you noticed any of the five signs your oil needs changing, you won’t want to hold off. It could exacerbate the situation. Instead, schedule your oil change with us at Norm Reeves Toyota San Diego.
Our team is here to make sure that your vehicle performs efficiently on the streets of San Diego, Kearny Mesa, and Chula Vista, CA!