Poor car performance, major engine repairs, and engine failure! Every car owner dreads these words and wishes to avoid these situations.
But did you know what’s the most common & under the radar reason for these dreadful moments? `
Belated engine oil change!
How does oil affect the engine?
Engine oil is one of the most important components of a car. A car’s engine is like its heart and oil is there to ensure all the movable pieces of the engine are working smoothly. If oil gets below the required amount or gets used up too much, these pieces start moving slowly with friction. This slow movement and friction push the engine to work harder and overheat resulting in Poor car performance, major engine repairs, and engine failure.
However, sometimes it can be tricky to know the right time to change your engine oil. That’s exactly why we have listed the 7 most common signs of when you should get an oil change.
5 Common Signs that You Need Car Oil Change
1: Dark Oil Color
Your car’s engine not only needs oil but clean and usable oil. Brand new engine oil is bright amber. Once poured inside the engine it starts collecting the residue as the engine works and gradually turns darker.
You should keep a regular check on the condition of your engine oil. You can do so by removing the oil dipstick and wiping a little oil on a paper towel or any other white surface. If your oil hasn’t turned black or dark brown by now, you are in luck. If it has turned black then you should immediately replace it.
2: Engine Noise
If your engine starts making noises like grinding or knocking it may mean that it needs oil. Why does this happen? As mentioned earlier, engine oil is responsible for eliminating friction in the engine. When there isn’t any oil in the engine, its components start rubbing with each other and cause problems. Your engine can fail if it lasts for longer periods so look out for the noises your engine makes. It might be crying for its oil.
3: Burnt Smell
As mentioned earlier, engine oil is responsible for reducing the friction inside the engine. But what happens if it doesn’t? The engine overheats and releases a burnt smell. If you find a burning smell lingering inside your car it may mean that your engine has run out of oil or the oil has turned black and is of no use. Get it fixed ASAP or you will have to face more severe consequences.
4: Bad Fuel Economy
If you find your car’s fuel mileage getting lower than usual it may mean that you need an oil change very soon. Though oil’s main function is to make the engine’s movements easier, it does exactly the opposite when it gets too old. With time oil’s viscosity increases which make the engine’s components move with difficulty.
What does an engine do when it finds difficulty in operating? It simply uses more fuel.
5: Overheating
As mentioned earlier, lack of oil or overused oil can lead to overheating of the engine. This can cause severe damage to the engine and can very well lead to engine failure. Therefore, you should take a good look at your engine oil if it overheats.
6: Oil Leaks
If you notice oil spots or puddles underneath your parked car, it is a clear indication of an oil leak. Oil leaks can occur due to worn-out gaskets or seals, which need to be addressed promptly. Ignoring oil leaks can result in low oil levels and potential engine damage.
7: Warning Lights
Modern cars are equipped with warning lights on the dashboard to alert drivers of potential issues. If you see the oil pressure warning light illuminated, it signifies low oil pressure or insufficient oil in the engine. This could be due to a need for an oil change or a more serious problem that requires immediate attention.
8: Engine Performance Issues
When the engine is not performing as smoothly as it used to, it could be a sign of dirty or degraded oil. You may experience a decrease in acceleration, sluggish response, or a general lack of power. If you notice these performance issues along with other signs mentioned earlier, it’s likely time for an oil change.
9: Exhaust Smoke
Unusual smoke emitting from the exhaust can indicate various engine problems, including oil-related issues. If you observe thick, dark smoke with a strong odor, it could mean that oil is leaking into the combustion chamber. This could be a result of worn-out piston rings or valve seals. Getting your oil changed can help resolve this issue and prevent further damage.
Final Words:
So these are the major signs that tell you that your engine needs an oil change. But which oil should you use? S-Oil is one of the most popular and trusted lubricant brands in the world. Following are some of its salient features:
1: A Fortune 500 company in Dow Jones USA. Approved by Ford, General Motors, Porsche, Mercedes Benz, MAN, and other such reputed names.
2: The foremost company in the oil refining sector in Korea and has the fifth-largest refinery in the world.
3: Equipped with all the industry certifications, S-Oil is also the official factory fill lubricant supplier to Hyundai and Kia Motors.
4: Ranked as one of the most competitive oil refiners in the Asia Pacific.
5: Based on the BCC which is a global-standard enhancement facility, the Company plays an important role as the hub of hard oil provision in the Asia Pacific region.
6: S-OIL started to export environment-friendly and high-value Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) for the first time in Korea in 2001. In 2005, the Company started to export Ultra-Low Sulfur Gasoline (ULSG). Currently, the Company exports high-quality environment-friendly oil products to Asia, the U.S., Europe, and Oceania, generating added value in overseas markets.
