When To Change Engine Oil ?

For the engine of your car to be healthy and run well, you must know when to replace the oil. Your car’s engine oil acts as its essence, lubricating vital parts and lowering friction to reduce wear and tear. 

You may choose the best time for an oil change by being aware of the elements that affect oil life, such as driving style, vehicle age, and oil type. Here, we’ll examine the main signs that indicate it’s time to change your engine oil, ensuring that your car keeps running smoothly and effectively.

Signs Your Car’s Oil is Due for a Change: 5 Red Flags to Look For

The health and durability of your car’s engine depend heavily on maintaining the right engine oil. If you change the oil regularly, your engine will continue to run smoothly, be protected from damage, and be well-lubricated. You can take preventative action to maintain the functionality and longevity of the engine in your car by paying close attention to these warning signs.

1. Dark and Dirty Oil

Check the colour and consistency of your engine oil. If it appears dark, dirty, or sludgy, it clearly indicates that the oil has become contaminated and is less effective in properly lubricating the engine.

2. Low Oil Level

Use the dipstick to inspect your oil level frequently. If the level is consistently low or below the recommended range, it’s a sign that your car may be consuming oil or experiencing a leak, and an oil change may be necessary.

3. Engine Noise

If you notice unusual engine noise, such as knocking or ticking sounds, it could result from insufficient lubrication due to degraded oil. Fresh oil helps reduce friction and keeps engine components running smoothly.

5. Decreased Performance

Oil loses viscosity and its capacity to lubricate properly as it ages. It may be a sign that the oil needs to be altered if you notice a decline in engine performance, such as sluggish acceleration or decreased fuel efficiency.

6. Dashboard Warning Lights

Modern vehicles are equipped with oil change indicator lights or service reminder systems. If the oil change light illuminates your dashboard or if you receive a notification, it’s essential to heed the warning and schedule an oil change as recommended by the manufacturer.

Tips for Choosing the Right Engine Oil for Your Vehicle?

To sustain the optimal performance of your automobile’s engine, it is advised to change the engine oil every 5,000 kilometres or every six months, adhering to the general guideline. This practice ensures that your car’s engine operates at its highest level of performance. 

When selecting engine oil for your car, it is crucial to assess the specific requirements and recommendations of your vehicle’s manufacturer. Different car brands, such as Honda, Toyota, Nissan, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Volkswagen, may have varying specifications for engine oil viscosity and performance standards. 

Picking the right engine oil for your vehicle is crucial to ensure proper lubrication and optimal performance of your engine. Here are some helpful tips to utilise when selecting the appropriate engine oil.

1. Refer To The Owner’s Manual

The owner’s manual of your vehicle will provide specific recommendations regarding the type and viscosity grade of engine oil suitable for your car. It will also mention any industry specifications or certifications that the oil should meet.

2. Consider Viscosity Grade

Engine oils are available in different viscosity grades, such as 5W-30, 10W-40, etc. The numbers represent the oil’s viscosity at different temperatures. Check your vehicle’s manual to determine the recommended viscosity grade based on the prevailing climate conditions in your area.

3. Understand Oil Types

There are different types of engine oils available, including conventional, synthetic, and synthetic blends. Conventional oils are typically the least expensive, while synthetic oils offer better performance and protection, especially in extreme temperatures and high-performance engines. Synthetic blends provide a balance between performance and cost.

4. Check Industry Certifications

Look for engine oils that carry industry certifications, such as the API (American Petroleum Institute) certification and the ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee) specification. These certifications ensure that the oil meets certain quality standards.

5. Consider Driving Conditions

If you frequently drive in severe conditions, such as extreme temperatures, heavy traffic, or towing heavy loads, you may need an engine oil specifically formulated for such conditions. Look for oils labelled as “high mileage” or “heavy-duty” that offer better protection under challenging circumstances.

6. Consult A Trusted Mechanic

If you’re unsure about which oil to choose or if you have specific concerns related to your vehicle, it’s always a good idea to consult a trusted mechanic. They can provide personalised recommendations based on their expertise and knowledge of your vehicle.

7. Brand Reputation And Quality

Stick to reputable brands known for producing high-quality engine oils. Brands with a good reputation are more likely to invest in research and development, ensuring their oils meet industry standards and specifications.

8. Change Oil Regularly

Regardless of the type of oil you choose, it’s important to follow the recommended oil change intervals for your vehicle. Regular oil changes help maintain engine health and prolong its lifespan.

Here are some commonly recommended engine oils for specific car brands.

• Honda: Honda Genuine Motor Oil, such as Honda 0W-20 or Honda 5W-30.

• Toyota: Toyota Genuine Motor Oil, such as Toyota 0W-20 or Toyota 5W-30.

• Nissan: Nissan Genuine Motor Oil, such as Nissan 0W-20 or Nissan 5W-30.

• BMW: BMW TwinPower Turbo Engine Oils, such as BMW 5W-30 or BMW 0W-40.

• Mercedes: Mercedes-Benz Genuine Engine Oil, such as Mercedes-Benz 5W-30 or Mercedes-Benz 0W-40.

• Audi: Audi Genuine Engine Oil, such as Audi 5W-30 or Audi 0W-40.

• Volkswagen: Volkswagen Genuine Engine Oil, such as Volkswagen 5W-30 or Volkswagen 0W-40.

Do note that these are general recommendations, and it’s essential to refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult a certified dealer to ensure the specific oil type and viscosity best suited for your car model and year.

Summary

In conclusion, knowing when to change your engine oil is vital for maintaining your vehicle’s performance and longevity. Paying attention to the signs discussed earlier ensures that your engine remains adequately lubricated and protected. When it’s time for an oil change, visiting a reputable car service centre or dealership is recommended. 

Certified technicians can provide expert advice, use your vehicle’s correct oil type and viscosity, and ensure the oil change is performed accurately. Regular visits to a car service centre for oil changes will help optimise your engine’s health and preserve your car running smoothly for years. Pay attention to the importance of this simple yet essential maintenance task to safeguard your engine’s well-being.