While the importance of regular oil changes is not a mystery to most drivers, many solely rely on their car’s mileage to serve as their guide on when it’s time to actually take their vehicle into the shop. Even worse, many don’t know the tell-tale signs their vehicle might be giving them that it’s time to look at the dipstick and change the oil.
We at Zimbrick Acura want to make sure your vehicle is running optimally at all times. That’s why we’ve put together this handy list of a few ways to tell when it’s time to schedule a service appointment in Madison, Wisconsin.
Oil Change Warning Signs
Excessive amounts of exhaust
While a certain amount of translucent vapor coming from your tailpipe is to be expected, you should become concerned if your vehicle’s tailpipe begins emitting smoke. This could indicate a variety of problems, all the way from an oil leak to faulty engine parts.
Your engine becomes noisy
Your engine is going to make noise — it’s a fact of car ownership. However, the amount of noise that is considered normal is not very much at all. Your vehicle’s oil provides your engine’s parts with a thin, protective layer to prevent damage from metal-on-metal contact. This means that an increase in engine noise like rumbling, knocking, or roaring could indicate that your oil has broken down and is no longer providing protection.
Ticking sounds when starting up
In the first second or two after you turn the key, your vehicle’s engine will immediately start circulating oil. Oil with improper texture will delay this process and make it take much longer than is usually necessary. If warming your engine up is suddenly taking longer and preceded by ticking, it’s likely that your oil has broken down and become sludgy.
Vibration while idle
With low oil levels comes high amounts of friction due to your engine’s metal parts wearing on one another during operation. This can lead to abnormal shaking or vibration, especially while you’re idle. If you notice that your car tends to intensely vibrate while your vehicle is stopped, you should do two things: limit the amount of time your vehicle is idle and schedule your next oil change.
Dark or murky oil
As our vehicle operates, its oil begins to change shades from its natural amber color to a murky, dark brown. You won’t be able to just know when this is happening, so make sure to check your car’s dipstick about once every month. Remember: You’re fine if you can see the dipstick through the oil, but if it’s dark and sludgy then you’re due for an oil change.
Schedule Service in Madison, WI
If you notice any combination of the above symptoms, it’s time to bring your vehicle to our award-winning service center in Madison, WI. Our technicians specialize in providing our clients with the most efficient, cost-effective vehicle service solutions in the area.
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