Changing the oil in your vehicle is one of the most important and simple ways to extend your engine’s longevity, and enhance its overall performance. So why do vehicle owners often delay changing their oil?
Unfortunately, most people rely on mileage rather than these oil change warning signs to let them know that it’s time to schedule a mobile lube service.
Signs It’s Time For An Oil Change
Look out for these oil change warning signs:
Dark and Dirty Oil
Clean oil is amber in color, dirty oil is thick and dark. Oil darkens over time and gets dirty from the particles that it collects from the engine.
You won’t be able to tell the moment when the color starts to change, so we recommend checking your oil every month. To do so, remove the dipstick from your engine, wipe it off, and put it back in. Remove it again, and if you see the stick through the oil, the fluid is fine. If it’s thick and dark, it’s time to call BAM right away!
Related: How Often Should I Check/Top Off-Fluids?
Loud Engine Noise or Knocking
Clean oil lubricates engine parts and protects them from metal-on-metal contact which keeps your engine quiet while you drive. When oil begins to break down, it won’t lubricate your engine’s parts as well, so you’ll hear louder engine noise.
Don’t ignore the sounds coming from your engine, you might start to hear knocking, rumbling, or roaring which indicates your vehicle is in DIRE need of an oil change!
If you have any questions about the engine noises in your fleet vehicles, give BAM a call! We’re here to help: 813-992-4662!
Oil Change or Check Engine Light
That pesky oil light that illuminates on your instrument panel will let you know that there is too little oil in the engine. Once you see this light, check the oil level with the dipstick, and if it’s dirty or low, change your oil as soon as you can.
You check engine light might even illuminate and will let you know that your vehicle is at high risk of engine damage due to lack of oil, or even damaged parts.
Exhaust Smoke
While it’s common for translucent vapor to come out of your tailpipe when the weather is cold if you see smoke coming from your exhaust, check your oil because there might be an oil leak in your engine.
If there is enough oil in your vehicle, have a professional mechanic perform diagnostics to find the problem and repair it immediately.
Oil Smell Inside the Cabin
Warning! If you get a whiff of oil inside the cabin, it’s a huge warning sign. If the odor is strong, it means that there might be a leak. If the oil scent is mixed with exhaust fumes or gas, your vehicle might be overheating and burning oil into the exhaust area.
If you smell oil or any fumes inside your car, get an oil change right away.
BAM Bonus: Excessive Mileage
Keep your eye on your odometer!
Most drivers rely on mileage to determine that it’s time to get an oil change, but some vehicles have different oil change schedules. We recommend changing your oil every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever comes first.
If your car is brand-new or uses synthetic oil, you can likely schedule an oil change every 6,000 miles or six months. Keep in mind, these are just guidelines. Check your owner’s manual for the exact timeframe for your specific vehicle’s oil changes.
Don’t have time to maintain your fleet’s oil change schedule? We do, and we come to you! Schedule a mobile oil change service whether you’re a busy pro on the go or have a whole fleet to maintain!
Simple Service, But Worth It
While oil changes are a simple service, they’re one of the most beneficial things you can do for your vehicle. Staying on top of routine oil changes and maintenance will extend the lifespan of your vehicle and keep it running for years to come! If you notice any of these common oil change warning signs, it’s time to schedule a mobile oil change.
Schedule a mobile lube service from BAM fleet. We come to you, no excuses about not having time! Our team is ready to keep your vehicle or fleet well maintained, so they can stay out in the field; making you money! Give BAM a call today!
