Why Do I Need an Oil Change?
If you drive longer than is recommended for an oil change, this can decrease the life of your engine. It can lead to the wearing out of your motors, which can cause engine failure.
Your engine has different parts that rub together and constantly move. This causes friction. Your car needs oil for these moving parts to prevent it from overheating. If your oil is too old, it can’t complete this task efficiently.
An oil change will
- Collect and remove any small particles and engine sludge
- Cool your engine down
- Lubricate the engine parts
How Do I Choose the Oil That’s Right for My Car?
When you go in to get your car checked, an expert at Bruner Toyota can help you pick out the right oil for you. Some vehicles might require full-synthetic motor oil.
What’s the Difference Between a Full-Synthetic and Semi-Synthetic Oil?
The type of oil you choose will depend on your driving style, climate, and the type of car you own. Semi-synthetic oils are mineral-based. If you drive in temperate weather and in normal conditions, you might be able to go with a semi-synthetic.
For those who are looking for a luxury or high-performance vehicle, you should choose a full-synthetic oil. This oil is also great for when you’re in harsh conditions.
Why Do I Need an Oil Filter Change?
Your car’s oil filter is only effective when it can store and strain grime. When it’s full, then there’s no longer protection from the different contaminants. Some oil filters when full can put all that has been filtered back into your car.
1. Dirty Oil
New motor oil has a bright amber color. When oil becomes dirty and old it becomes darker and black.
You can check the color of your car’s oil by removing the oil dipstick and checking. If it’s black or dark brown you’ll want to be getting an oil change.
2. A Noisy Engine
When the parts of your engine are rubbing together and not protected from oil, you can notice a noise coming from it. In rare cases, you might hear that your engine is roaring. Never ignore any strange noises your car is making, and bring it in for oil change services.
3. An Oily Smell
If you smell an oil scent from your car, it can mean an oil leak. If you notice the scent of exhaust fumes or gas, it can be a sign of overheating. You’ll want to bring it in for maintenance immediately.
4. A Low Oil Level
If your oil level becomes too low, that’s a clear sign your car needs oil. When you drive your car around with not enough oil, it can increase your risk of engine damage or a breakdown.
5. High Mileage
Have you recently traveled many miles in your car? Driving more than usual can mean an oil change is needed sooner than usual.
Every car is different as far as how often they need their oil changed. Check your manual for the guidelines.
6. Check Engine Light Is On
Some cars don’t have an oil change light, so the check engine light will come on instead. Your mechanic can take a look to determine if you’ll need an oil change, or if something else is going on.
7. Exhaust Smoke
During the winter months, it’s more common to see vapor from the back of your car. If you see gray or blue smoke from your exhaust, then you might have a leak.
You might also notice a burnt oil smell. Make sure to get your oil leak fixed right away if you notice these signs.
8. Your Car Is Stalling
If you notice your car stalling, it could be due to several reasons. You could either be experiencing something large like a clogged catalytic converter, or a bad fuel pump. Or, you could be experiencing something smaller such as bad spark plugs, or a clogged filter.
9. Your Window Sticker Says Your Car Is Due
After your oil change, there will be a window sticker as a reminder for your next oil change. It can either be a certain date or mileage, whichever is met first. If you’re unsure about the date, check your manufacturer’s recommendation.
10. Slow Acceleration
When your oil becomes old/dirty you might notice your car’s acceleration doesn’t perform as well. This is due to your engine having a decrease in power.
11. Your Car Is Overheating
When your engine doesn’t have enough oil, the metal parts of your engine start colliding. When this occurs, your car can start overheating. Check your engine’s temperature to see if there has been an increase.
12. Your Car Is Shaking
If you notice your car is shaking while it’s sitting, this is a sign you might need an oil change. When the oil is dirty or old, it doesn’t lubricate the engine properly.
You might notice your car is shaking or vibrating. It can be more obvious when your car is idle. Make an appointment with your oil change expert today.
The Top Signs You Need an Oil Change
Now that you’ve explored the top sign you need an oil change, you should have a better idea of whether you need one or not. Do you need an oil change, or aren’t sure if you need one? Are you in the Early TX area?
Contact us today at Bruner Toyota and schedule your oil change appointment. We’ll come up with an action plan that’s specific to your vehicle’s needs.
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