What to Look For
Your car needs regular oil changes to stay healthy. But you don't want to pay for them more often than you need to. How can you find the balance without risking your engine's health? Springdale Automotive in Louisville, Kentucky can help. Here are a few signs you can watch out for that will tell you exactly when it's time to change your motor oil.
When it Has Metal Flakes
There are a lot of factors that influence whether or not motor oil needs to be changed. It's not always black and white for all drivers to follow the same procedure. What is crystal clear is that metal flakes in the oil are a bad sign. If you inspect the condition of your car's motor oil and find large flakes of metal in it, that means there's a problem falling apart inside. You'll want to seek professional attention as soon as possible!
When It's Old
How old is too old for motor oil? It depends on a number of factors, such as what kind of oil you use, where you live, and how you drive. Synthetic motor oils are designed to last longer than conventional kinds. Driving in extreme weather climates can take a toll on the engine and its oil. Even your unique driving style can influence how fast oil wears out. For the most part, oil breaks down whether you drive your vehicle 1,000 miles or 100 miles a month. Following the manufacturer's recommended interval is a good place to start, as they've accounted for your vehicle's unique features.
When It's Dirty
How dirty is too dirty? If your motor oil has changed color or has particles floating in it, does that mean it's time to change it? Not necessarily. If you've had an oil change very recently and notice that it has gotten dirty quickly, that simply means it's doing its job and suspending the contaminants away from engine parts. However, if it's been a few months or more since your last oil change, the dirt might be a sign that it's time for service.
Think your car needs an oil change? Visit Springdale Automotive in Louisville, Kentucky for fast, affordable service!