Signs You Need an Oil Change

An oil change is one of the most important, and easiest, services your vehicle needs. Your vehicle's oil helps your engine running smoothly and efficiently, as well as keeping it cool and lubricated to minimize wear and tear.

With oil playing such a vital role in your engine's function, it's a wonder that so many people put their oil changes off for so long. Relying on your mileage is one way to stay on top of your necessary oil changes, but you could also pay attention to some warning signs that your oil change is coming up.

At Glendale Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, we want to help you care for your vehicle properly, which includes your oil changes. Here are some warning signs that you need an oil change, which will help you ensure that your vehicle gets the service it needs.

Why is an Oil Change Important?

Clean, new oil helps your engine perform its best by lubricating the many moving parts and keeping it clean. When your oil is old or dirty, it requires more to do the job, and it can't clean and cool your engine as it should.

When you change your oil regularly, you help your engine stay healthy and efficient, as well as avoiding the common warning signs that your oil change is overdue.

Dark, Dirty or Gritty Oil

Clean oil is a clear amber color. Over time, the oil collects particles and debris from your engine and will begin to darken. This won't be immediately obvious, which is why you should get in the habit of checking your oil on a regular basis and taking note of its color and clarity. If it's thick, dark or full of particles, it's time for an oil change.

Engine Noise or Knocking

Oil lubricates your engine's moving parts by creating a thin barrier between the metals. This not only keeps your engine cool and running cleanly but also helps to keep it quiet. When your oil begins to deteriorate, it can't lubricate as effectively, which results in your engine running louder. If this problem goes unchecked, it will eventually cause a knocking sound that's difficult to ignore.

Check Engine Light

Your check engine light monitors a variety of functions within your engine, including your oil health. If this light comes on, one of the most common culprits is unclean oil running through your engine.

If your vehicle has an oil change light, you may also see that go on to indicate that there's less oil in your engine. In either case, it's important to get your vehicle in for an oil change as soon as possible.

Smoke from Your Exhaust

A healthy exhaust will emit clear vapor on occasion, but if you see dark gray or black smoke coming from your exhaust, it may indicate that you have an oil leak or another oil-related issue.

Dark smoke can also be caused by malfunctions within your engine. If you see this, make an appointment for an oil change to see if that rectifies the problem.

Schedule Your Oil Change at Glendale Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram

Recognizing the signs you need an oil change is a huge help for keeping your engine healthy and performing at its peak.

If you happen to see any of these signs while you're driving around Chesterfield, Kirkwood or St. Louis, or your mileage indicates that your oil change is due, call or visit Glendale Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram to schedule your oil change appointment!