Signs You Need Your Oil Changed
As a responsible driver in the Meridian, Philadelphia, and Laurel, Mississippi, area, you know routine maintenance is crucial. As one of the easiest and quickest things you can do to keep your car running its best, an oil change tops the list of maintenance procedures, providing the lubrication and cooling your engine needs.
However, life happens. Though it’s easy to keep up with vehicle maintenance on paper, it can be harder to remember to do so in reality. If you’ve forgotten to schedule your appointment or don’t remember when your last oil change was, BMW of Meridian is here to help with our list of the top signs you need to change your oil.
Five Signs It’s Time for an Oil Change
Since oil is such an essential component in how your engine runs, chances are your vehicle will let you know when it needs an oil change. Watch for these signs and if you notice any, schedule your appointment right away:
- Dirty Oil. Motor oil works hard to keep your engine clean and properly lubricated. As it does this, it picks up debris and other particles, so it doesn’t gunk up your engine. Over time, this can cause your oil to become dirty, thick, sludgy, and dark.
You can see if it’s dirty by checking your oil once a month. If it’s not translucent amber and smooth to the touch, an oil change should be in your future. - Engine Noises. It’s common for your engine to make some sound while it’s working. However, if you’re hearing noises out of the norm like a clunking or grinding, you may need an oil change.
Without clean oil, your engine will have to exert itself more, which can cause metallic grinding sounds or knocking. Any strange noise coming from under your hood is cause for concern, so see a certified technician ASAP.
- Exhaust Smoke. Vapor emitting from your exhaust pipe is pretty normal. But if you’re seeing billowing smoke, it’s a telltale sign you require an oil change.
This smoke can be caused by an oil leak or oil burning where it’s not supposed to. Though this may be easily fixed with an oil change, if left alone it could lead to vehicle damage that’s expensive to fix. - Oil Smell. Are you smelling oil in your cabin? This could be your car letting you know it needs fresh oil.
Without the oil it needs for lubrication, your engine can start to overheat and emit an oil-like smell in your cabin. Since this is serious business, make sure to get your car in for an inspection as soon as possible to avoid an under-hood fire and major damage. - Check Oil Light. It may seem obvious, but the best way you can tell if you need an oil change is right on your dashboard.
When your vehicle’s diagnostic system senses that your vehicle is in need of clean oil, it’ll let you know by lighting up a little oil symbol on your dash. Your Check Engine light may also come on, letting you know to schedule an oil change.
Where Can I Get an Oil Change near Me?
Right here at the BMW of Meridian service center. Drivers in the Meridian, Philadelphia, and Laurel, MS, area can schedule their oil change appointments to have our professional team of certified technicians handle the maintenance for you. Keep your vehicle running as it should by contacting us today!