Does Your Car Need An Oil Change? 8 Signs It's Time For One

Do you remember the first day driving your car off the lot? Or even yesterday, when you thought your car ran like a charm? While it might be true, it's important to note that in order to keep your car running smoothly, you'll need to perform regular maintenance. As a car owner, you have a big responsibility to keep your vehicle in good condition, which includes caring for all the moving parts inside. You might not know that when it comes to your car, you need to have your oil changed more often than you think. 

Taking care of your car before a problem starts is the best way to ensure that it functions optimally. You do not want to be stuck on the side of the road with an oil problem. Nor do you want to be paying an exorbitant amount of money at the mechanic because you waited too long to change your oil. As car owners ourselves, we know how important it is to have peace of mind that our car is functioning properly. Don't get stuck with a repair that your car doesn't need. There are some tell-tale signs to look out for if your vehicle is due for an oil change.

1. Engine ticking noise

Oil changes are important because they help keep your car running smoothly and efficiently. As the oil ages, it breaks down and becomes less effective at lubricating moving parts, and can even cause damage to your engine. As the engine takes time to start, it makes a ticking sound. It's not uncommon for a car to have a slight ticking noise as it runs. In fact, many people don't even notice the sound. But if the noise gets louder, or if it's accompanied by other symptoms like stalling or poor performance, then it's time to pay attention and get your oil changed.

2. Unusual idle-time vibrations

Vibration is one of the most common signs that something is wrong with your engine. If there are any unusual vibrations, especially during idle time, it's important to get an oil change as soon as possible. Otherwise, you risk damaging the engine and having to replace it. These vibrations are usually caused by metal parts in the engine moving around without proper lubrication. This can cause damage to the engine and reduce performance. If this is happening to you, take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible. It can be dangerous if not addressed right away!

3. Engine knocking sounds

When you're driving, you can't always tell if your engine needs an oil change. But if you hear knocking sounds coming from under the hood, it's a good idea to get one done sooner than later. Knocking sounds are usually caused by worn-out valve seals or piston rings that need to be replaced. When the engine isn't getting enough oil, this can happen faster than normal - so it's important to keep up with regular maintenance so that minor issues don't become major ones! If you hear this sound, it's time to get your car in for an oil change. While you can still drive around with this sound, it's not safe and will eventually damage the engine.

4. Low oil level

Oil is what keeps your engine running smoothly, and it's not something you should neglect. It's a complex substance that consists of many different elements and can only be replaced by itself. If oil isn't kept at the right level, your car can experience serious problems. If you notice that the oil level in your car is low, it's time for a new oil change. Low oil levels can be caused by leaks or faulty seals, which can lead to increased wear on your engine. You don't want to risk your car breaking down, so it's important to make sure you're checking the oil levels regularly.

5. Gear-change problems

When you drive, your car's engine is working hard to turn the wheels and make your vehicle move forward. Inside your engine, there are many moving parts that have to work together in order for your vehicle to drive smoothly. The oil in your engine helps keep all of these parts working smoothly. When enough time has passed since your last oil change and it is no longer doing its job properly, you'll notice that you have trouble shifting gears. If your car is having trouble changing gears, it's time for an oil change.

6. Warning lights

The best way to know if your car needs an oil change is to check the dashboard lights. The warning lights on your dash indicate that something is wrong with your car, and oil changes are one of the most common causes for these lights to come on.  The oil can get too dirty and start to gum up the engine, which is not good for it. The only way to make sure that doesn't happen is by getting your oil changed regularly.

7. Change in oil texture and consistency

Have you ever noticed that your car's engine oil changes texture and consistency when you've had it for a while? It turns from a transparent, golden liquid to something that looks more like a thick, dark brown syrup. This is a sign of old, dirty oil. Your car needs an oil change if there's a change in the oil's texture and consistency. If you don't have it changed regularly, your engine will wear out faster than it should. You'll end up spending more money on repairs - and at worst, you could get stranded by the side of the road!

8. Exhaust smoke

Oil doesn't just lubricate the engine - it also cools down the metal parts and prevents them from overheating. If there isn't enough oil in the tank, your car will start burning off the excess heat in the form of smoke and fumes. This is dangerous because it can lead to engine failure, which means you'll have to spend time and money on repairs. The best way to avoid this problem is regular maintenance. Don't ignore this warning sign! Your car needs an oil change immediately if you see any signs of smoke coming from your exhaust pipe.