Most people get in their vehicle and take for granted that it will start right up and get them where they need to go. When something goes wrong, it can be frustrating, but many vehicle problems can be solved by simple, preventative maintenance. An oil change is one of the most commonly performed services that can keep your car on the road, but how do you know when you need one?
How to Tell If You Need an Oil Change
Read the Manual
While the old adage is that you should change your oil every 3 months or 3,000 miles, today’s vehicles (and today’s oil chemistry) are built differently. Many cars can go up to 10,000 miles without needing an oil change. So rather than rely on previous advice, it’s important to look at your vehicle’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends. It may refer to “Normal” and “Severe” driving conditions to determine when you should get an oil change. It’s important to note that things like driving short distances, stop-and-go driving, and use in extreme temperatures all point toward “Severe” conditions.
Look Under the Hood
Many manufacturers recommended checking your oil regularly. Getting a closer look at your oil and oil level every month can help you see a problem before it starts. Oil should look amber in color. If your oil looks thick and dark, it may be a sign that sludge is forming. It’s also important to make sure your oil doesn’t contain small metal particles, which could be a sign of engine damage.
Look for Differences
If your vehicle seems like it’s driving differently, there’s most likely a problem. If you’re driving with old or low oil, your car will tell you in a number of ways. If it’s stalling or making a loud knocking sound while driving, you should get it checked right away.
Bad oil can also cause your engine to overheat. This is because oil is designed to lubricate the engine parts, and without fresh oil, friction creates heat. This can also lead to the smell of burnt oil, so keep eyes, ears, and nose peeled.
Bring Your Vehicle in for Service
At Prescott Ford Lincoln of Princeton, Illinois, our team of trained technicians can help you with oil changes and more. Contact us for Ford service in Princeton or schedule service online.
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