Signs That You Need to Replace Your Engine Oil | DIY Car Service Parts | Middlewich

14

February, 2020

Signs That You Need to Replace Your Engine Oil

Engine oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine to keep your car in good working order. But how do you know when your oil needs changing? The best thing you can do is regularly self-service your car to identify whether you need to replace your engine oil. 

Look out for these signs that mean that you need to replace your engine oil ASAP.

Symptoms of Dirty Engine Oil | DIY Car Service Parts | Middlewich

Symptoms of Dirty Engine Oil

  • Dark or dirty engine oil – the original yellow/amber colour turns dark as the oil becomes contaminated with dirt and debris. Check your engine oil often – monthly is best – to ensure it’s in good condition and replace it when necessary.
  • Noisy engine – car oil creates a protective lining between engine parts to reduce friction, heat and damage. Once the oil breaks down, the engine parts begin to audibly knock against each other.
  • Oil change dashboard light illuminates – this light indicates that the engine oil level is low and that you need a top up. If the dashboard light illuminates often (as your engine oil level keeps dropping), get your car serviced by a professional as soon as possible. This is a sign of serious engine damage.
  • Rough idling – if your car feels shaky while idling, your oil probably isn’t able to effectively lubricate the engine moving parts, making the car vibrate.
  • Ticking sound when you start the engine – if the oil viscosity is too thick or thin, the car oil will struggle to circulate. The ticking noise comes from the valves working to move the oil.
  • Burning smell – this is a sign of contaminated engine oil or an oil leak.
  • Slow acceleration – limited performance is common when engine oil is so old and/or contaminated that it can no longer effectively lubricate the engine parts. You’re especially likely to notice this when driving uphill, towing a trailer or carrying other heavy loads.
  • Poor fuel economy – engine oil gets thicker as it ages, becoming increasingly resistant against moving parts. The more resistant the oil, the more fuel is required for oil circulation.

Read more about why replacing your engine oil is so important here.

 

Replace Your Engine Oil | DIY Car Service Parts | Middlewich

Replace Your Engine Oil 

Your car will need more frequent oil changes the older it gets. Additional oil checks are also a good idea if you’re quickly accumulating a high mileage. Follow our simple steps to change your engine oil here.

When you replace your engine oil, ensure that you dispose of your old oil safely.

To find engine oil at the best viscosity for your car, search your registration plate below.

 

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