The 5 Signs Your Engine Oil Needs Changing

Changing or having your oil changed is a pretty painless process. It’s also one of the most crucial if you’re trying to make sure your vehicle is running optimally. Fresh and clean oil helps to ensure your vehicle’s long life and elite performance. Not sure if you need an oil change? Or can’t remember when your last one was? Check out this handy list of signs your engine needs an oil change.

Your Oil Level or Check Engine Light Is On

This one is pretty self-explanatory. If the “Oil Level” indicator on your dashboard is lighting up, get your oil changed, or at the very least, check your oil level. Oil is your engine’s lifeblood and is integral to your car running smoothly.

Your Oil is Dark and Gritty

If you’re checking your oil level and you notice your oil is dark and dirty, you should change it as soon as possible. Fresh oil is a transparent, light brown color, while old and used oil is black and thick. As your oil ages and becomes less clean, it loses its cleaning and lubricating properties.

Your Engine Is Louder Than Normal

Old and dirty oil doesn’t lubricate as well as fresh oil, and as a result, your engine will sound louder. Without lubricating, moving parts in the engine grind together and create a much louder hum than you’re used to. You know what your car sounds like better than anyone. If it’s louder than normal, get it checked out.

Your Car Feels Different

While fresh and clean oil is easy to move throughout your engine, old and dirty oil is sludgy and has a difficult time moving. While idling, your car may feel like it’s shaking due to the increased friction between your engine’s moving parts. Additionally, driving and accelerating may be less smooth.

You’ve Driven A Lot Since Your Last Oil Change

If you’ve just returned from a long road trip, or you can’t remember the last time you’ve had your oil changed, you should probably get it check out. While every manufacturer is different, most vehicles need an oil change about once every 3,000 miles.

Not sure if you need an oil change? Or perhaps another service from our Maintenance Menu? Stop down to Winn Volkswagen of Woodland Hills and talk to our knowledgeable service team. No one knows Volkswagen vehicles better than Volkswagen-Certified Technicians, after all.

Winn Volkswagen of Woodland Hills is a new Volkswagen and used vehicle dealership located a 21141 Ventura Blvd of Woodland Hills, CA and all other surrounding cities and areas. For more information about our inventory, please call us at (855) 419-9290 or come see us in person to test drive a model today.