7 Signs You Need To Change Your Engine Oil

Your vehicle contains moving parts that rub together and create friction. Oil helps to lubricate the moving components in the engine and ensure optimum operation of your engine. The oil absorbs heat and prevents overheating. 

Here are signs that you need to replace your vehicle's oil. 

1. Grinding Noises

You may hear your engine producing metal-on-metal noises due to insufficient lubrication. The noises indicate that your oil is thick and dirty and unable to lubricate moving parts in the engine properly. This problem is more common if the engine oil has gotten old and worn out after excessive use. 

2. Exhaust Smoke

Diesel engines may generate black exhaust smoke that resembles soot. The vehicle may also produce a visible cloud when the temperatures are very low. The black smoke or visible clouds are normal and nothing to worry about. The real problem is if your vehicle starts to produce blueish smoke. 

If your car starts to generate blueish smoke via the exhaust, the oil may have seeped into the engine and combined with the burning fuel. The smoke may also indicate a low amount of oil in the engine. An oil leak that causes oil to enter the exhaust system might also cause your vehicle to produce bluish smoke through the exhaust.

3. Poor Fuel Economy

If your gas mileage has suddenly changed, the problem could be an overdue oil change. As oil ages, it thickens and starts to resemble sludge. This thick substance doesn't properly lubricate moving parts but instead increases the resistance of the moving parts. As a result, your engine has to use more energy to move these parts. 

4. Dark Textured Oil

As the oil passes through the engine, particles can mix with the oil. Over time, the particles accumulate in the oil and cause the fluid to turn dark. The buildup of these particles can make your oil dirty and less effective. 

5. Overdue Oil Change

Many auto manufacturers recommend car owners change the engine oil after the vehicle has covered a certain number of miles. The longevity of engine oil depends on the make and model of your vehicle. You can check the inside dashboard of your vehicle to know the due date. The manufacturer's website may also contain information about when to change the oil in your particular vehicle model.

If you bought the vehicle from a dealership, they might send you a postcard to remind you of the upcoming oil change. Another approach is to check the windshield on the driver's side. Some dealerships put a sticker with information about the next oil change on the windshield. 

6. Oil Change or Check Engine Light



Insufficient amounts of oil in your engine can prompt the vehicle to turn on an illuminated light on the dashboard. This is the oil change light that informs vehicle owners to change their oil as soon as possible. If you ignore this light, the vehicle might turn on the check engine light. This light indicates that your engine and vehicle are at risk of damage due to extremely low amounts of oil.

7. Oil Smell Inside the Cabin 

Oil can mix with fuel and gases, and this mixture heats up in the exhaust area. The result will be engine overheating and an oil smell inside the cabin. The smell is usually strong and may combine with the smell of exhaust fumes and burning fuel. 

Failure to promptly change engine oil can damage your vehicle. All German Auto can service your personal or family vehicle and repair any damaged parts. Contact us to get help from factory-trained technicians who offer auto services at competitive prices.