5 Signs Your Vehicle Needs an Oil Change
Regular oil changes help keep your car running smoothly, whether you’re commuting, running errands, or planning a weekend getaway. However, if you’re overdue for an oil change or don’t remember the last time you had an oil change, you may be at risk for costly breakdowns.
Bad oil can overheat the engine, void your warranty, clog the engine, or reduce your fuel efficiency. To stay safe on the road and avoid unexpected breakdowns, stay on top of regular oil changes.
Look for the 5 common signs your vehicle needs an oil change and prevent costly breakdowns so you can keep your adventures on track. Stay safe, save money, and keep your engine running effortlessly.
Why Oil Changes Matter
Oil keeps your engine parts cool, lubricated, and running smoothly. Skipping an oil change isn’t just a minor slip — it can cause serious damage over time. Without regular oil changes and vehicle maintenance, you may have serious problems on the road or face expensive breakdowns.
- Maintain your vehicle warranty
- Keep the engine running smoothly
- Prevent overheating
- Stop sludge build-up or engine clogs from dirty oil
Signs You Need an Oil Change
1. Dashboard Warning Lights
One of the easiest signs to spot that you are due for an oil change is the light on your dashboard. Your car may have a specific oil change light or the check engine light may pop on instead.
Always check your oil level as soon as you see this warning light. Ignoring a check engine light or oil check light can mean an unexpected breakdown or engine problems. The sooner you schedule vehicle maintenance near you, the faster – and cheaper – the fix.
Oil is fine but the check engine light is on? See 9 common reasons your check engine light is on (and what to do).
2. Strange Engine Noises
Ever noticed your engine sounding louder than usual? If your engine starts making odd noises, it’s often due to low or old oil. Without enough engine lubrication from clean oil, the metal parts start rubbing together, creating noise — and expensive damage if left unchecked.
When you hear strange noises from your engine, call for vehicle maintenance services in Lisbon, Maryland. It’s always better to get it checked instead of waiting for an engine breakdown.
3. Dark and Dirty Oil
Are you checking your oil? It’s recommended to check your oil at least once a month and before long road trips. Oil should look smooth and almost honey-colored when it’s fresh (but still dark). Over time, with dirt and grime buildup, it can turn dark and sludgy, which is bad for the engine.
You can easily check your oil at home:
- Locate the oil dipstick under the hood
- Pull it out
- Wipe it clean
- Insert it back in and then pull it out
- Check the oil for being too dark/black or gritty and clumpy
4. Exhaust Smoke
Most vehicle owners don’t know to check their exhaust smoke for signs they need an oil change. Seeing a little white vapor from your exhaust on a cold morning is normal. But if you notice dark smoke coming from your tailpipe, your engine could be burning oil. This is a clear sign that the oil is either too old, leaking, or too thin to do its job.
If you see dark smoke from the exhaust, it’s time to book a vehicle maintenance appointment in Lisbon, Maryland before things get worse. Call Lisbon Auto Repair Center today to get it checked out.
5. Oily Smell Inside the Cabin
Your nose knows! If you notice a burnt oil smell while driving, it could mean oil is leaking onto hot engine parts. Not only is this bad for your car, but it can also lead to smoke or even fire in severe cases.
Don’t ignore odd odors when your engine is running — have a professional check it out immediately. Remember, vehicle maintenance is affordable and easy to schedule, while major engine repairs can take longer and be more expensive.
How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
The old rule to change your oil “every 3,000 miles” is a bit outdated. Today’s cars and synthetic oils often last 5,000–7,500 miles, and some even longer. Always check your owner’s manual and consider your driving habits. Short trips and stop-and-go driving can wear oil out faster.
If you’re unsure, schedule vehicle maintenance at Lisbon Auto Repair Center for professional advice on how often to change your oil or schedule a vehicle tune-up.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes
- Improve fuel economy
- Extend your vehicle’s lifespan
- Reduce harmful emissions
- Better chance of passing Maryland emissions testing
- Boost vehicle performance
- Prevent unexpected breakdowns
Finding Reliable Vehicle Maintenance in Lisbon, Maryland
Whether you’re new in town or a lifelong local, finding a trustworthy mechanic can feel daunting. At Lisbon Auto Repair Center, we know trusted vehicle service can be hard to come by, so we’re here for our customers. To feel confident booking with us:
- Check out our positive customer reviews
- Consult with our certified technicians
- See the difference with our competitive and honest pricing
Our reliable shop for vehicle maintenance in Lisbon, Maryland can help you keep small issues from turning into major repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I schedule an oil change?
Usually every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but check your vehicle’s manual and always schedule earlier if you notice signs of engine trouble.
What happens if I skip an oil change?
Skipping an oil change can lead to engine damage, poor performance, an overheating engine, and even total engine failure. Regular oil changes prevent costly repairs and improve fuel efficiency for safer driving.
Can I check my oil at home?
Absolutely! Using your dipstick, you can check both the oil level and its color to know when it’s time for a change before the oil change light comes on.
Why does my car smell like burning oil?
This usually points to an oil leak that drips onto hot engine parts. Get it checked right away to avoid serious damage.
