Signs You Need an Oil Change

As many drivers in the Avon, Indianapolis and Plainfield areas know, routine oil changes will optimize the performance of your engine. There’s no better way to avoid engine trouble than by regularly draining and refilling your engine oil.

So, what are the signs you need an oil change? A little knowledge can take you a long way, and some of the most important signs that it’s time for an oil change are presented right here, all on one page for your convenience. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an oil change right away!

Black & Gritty Oil 

You can check the color and consistency of your oil with the dipstick. Just remove it from the engine, wipe it down, put it back in for a few seconds and remove it again. Then, examine the oil on the dipstick closely. Fresh oil has an amber color and a fluid consistency. If your oil is black and gritty or sludgy, it’s time for an oil change. When your oil is contaminated, its ability to lubricate the metal parts inside your engine ends up compromised.

Oil Level Too Low 

When you’re checking the oil for color and consistency, it’s a good idea to also make sure you have enough oil to keep your engine lubricated. When you pull out the dipstick, see how high the oil film reaches, and if the level seems low, top off your oil to keep the levels consistent and proper. If the oil level seems low soon after you’ve had an oil change done, you may want to talk to your local service center to have your system checked for leaks.

Cabin Smells Like Oil

If you catch a whiff of oil while you’re behind the wheel, there’s a strong chance of a leak somewhere. It’s possible that your engine is overheating, and oil is burning into the exhaust system. When the scent of oil is mixed with that of gasoline or exhaust fumes, it’s a definite red flag. If you notice the scent of oil, get an oil change (and your engine systems examined) right away.

Oil Change & Check Engine Warning Lights

When the oil change or check engine warning lights on your instrument panel illuminate and stay lit, your car is registering a low oil level. You can confirm this by checking the oil levels with your dipstick, but again, you’ll need to have the oil levels topped off stay on top of regular oil changes to keep your engine in good condition.

Check the Manufacturer-Recommended Maintenance Schedule

This one’s easy to overlook, but it’s the best way to ensure the oil in your engine is fresh and clean. Most manufacturers make their maintenance schedules available online, and you can examine the schedule for your make and model to make sure you’re getting preventative oil changes at all the right intervals. You can also check your owner’s manual for this information.

Schedule Your Routine Oil Change

Oil changes are part and parcel of driving a car. If you notice any of the signs you need an oil change above, feel free to schedule a maintenance appointment at Andy Mohr Volkswagen. The trained technicians at our service center can change your oil and filter quickly and efficiently, so you can get back out on the roads of Avon, Indianapolis and Plainfield in no time at all! Give us a call or stop in today.