How do you know if your car needs oil change?
To take proper care of your car, oil changes are basic to routine maintenance. Regular oil changes are vital to keeping your engine running cleanly. Skipping this service can lead to expensive engine repairs down the road. So how do you know if your car needs an oil change? Here are some indicators that it is time to schedule this service.
1. Check the Window Sticker
Generally, when you have an oil change, the auto shop will place a sticker on the upper left corner of your windshield that indicates the number of miles when your next oil change is due. Intervals will vary depending on whether you drive a gas or hybrid car. In addition to the sticker, your shop might give you oil change coupons to remind you of a little cash savings incentive.
2. A Dashboard Light is On
Most vehicles have dash lights that let you know that “Scheduled Maintenance is Due” or “Check Engine”. These lights come on when oil levels are low. While these lights can indicate other problems, it is prudent to take your car in and have the oil checked.
3. Noisy Engine
Motor oil lubricates the engine and keeps it quiet. If you hear knocking or grinding sounds coming from under the hood, this could indicate that oil levels are low or the oil is old, dirty, and sludgy. This can damage the engine and needs to be changed.
4. Burning Smell
If the interior cabin of your car has a burning smell, this is a pretty clear sign that the oil needs to be changed. You might also catch a burning smell coming from the tailpipe and even see black smoke. Old, grungy oil will do this.
If you are still wondering, how do you know if your car needs an oil change, simply call your auto shop and ask. They will likely want to know how many miles you have driven since the last change and if you are experiencing any problems with the engine, like some of the things mentioned here. Before you schedule your oil change appointment, be sure to ask if they have oil change coupons to make frequent servicing more affordable.
Have more questions about how do you know if your car needs oil change? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about oil change coupons and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
To take proper care of your car, oil changes are basic to routine maintenance. Regular oil changes are vital to keeping your engine running cleanly. Skipping this service can lead to expensive engine repairs down the road. So how do you know if your car needs an oil change? Here are some indicators that it is time to schedule this service.
1. Check the Window Sticker
Generally, when you have an oil change, the auto shop will place a sticker on the upper left corner of your windshield that indicates the number of miles when your next oil change is due. Intervals will vary depending on whether you drive a gas or hybrid car. In addition to the sticker, your shop might give you oil change coupons to remind you of a little cash savings incentive.
2. A Dashboard Light is On
Most vehicles have dash lights that let you know that “Scheduled Maintenance is Due” or “Check Engine”. These lights come on when oil levels are low. While these lights can indicate other problems, it is prudent to take your car in and have the oil checked.
3. Noisy Engine
Motor oil lubricates the engine and keeps it quiet. If you hear knocking or grinding sounds coming from under the hood, this could indicate that oil levels are low or the oil is old, dirty, and sludgy. This can damage the engine and needs to be changed.
4. Burning Smell
If the interior cabin of your car has a burning smell, this is a pretty clear sign that the oil needs to be changed. You might also catch a burning smell coming from the tailpipe and even see black smoke. Old, grungy oil will do this.
If you are still wondering, how do you know if your car needs an oil change, simply call your auto shop and ask. They will likely want to know how many miles you have driven since the last change and if you are experiencing any problems with the engine, like some of the things mentioned here. Before you schedule your oil change appointment, be sure to ask if they have oil change coupons to make frequent servicing more affordable.
Have more questions about how do you know if your car needs oil change? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about oil change coupons and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
