Changing your oil is one of the most basic yet essential maintenance you should be doing for your car, but how do you know when your vehicle is due for an oil change? Conventional wisdom says that you should change your oil every three months or every 3,000 miles, but newer vehicles can go for about 7,500 or even as far as 10,000 miles before their oil needs to be changed.
While it's certainly not a bad idea to stick to the three-month or 3,000-mile rule, you should also watch for some of these other signs that it's time to change your oil.
Your Engine Oil is Dark and Dirty
Clean motor oil is amber in color but gets darker as it is used. When it gets to the point where it is almost black, it's time to change it. You can check the state of your oil by pulling the dipstick out of your engine, wiping it clean, and putting it back in. If you can see the stick through the oil when you pull it out again, your oil is fine. If not, it's time to schedule an oil change.
Loud Engine Noises
Oil prevents metal-on-metal contact, so you might hear louder sounds or even knocking from your engine if your oil starts to break down. If you hear these louder sounds and it's been a while since you changed your oil last, it's time to bring your vehicle in for an oil change.
Your "Change Oil" or "Check Engine" Light Is On
The "Change Oil" and "Check Engine" lights will turn on if there is something wrong with your vehicle if they are working correctly, but you can't always count on them. They are certainly good indicators that something is wrong, but you should still check your oil if these lights turn on.
There is a Strong Oil Smell in Your Vehicle's Cabin
Like the smoke from your car when you have an oil leak, you may also detect a more pungent oil smell in your cabin. This is a big sign that you have a problem, so don't hesitate to bring your vehicle in for repairs when you notice this.
Whether you notice some of these signs or have gone too long without an oil change based on your vehicle's maintenance manual, contact our dealership to schedule an oil change.
