Getting oil changes always feels like you were just there at the shop, right? But time works in funny ways, and it’s probably been a lot longer than you think since your last oil change. The Auto Shop of Chapin has some advice to help you spot when you might be overdue for an oil change.
There’s a Ton of Exhaust Smoke
Your car always gives off a certain amount of exhaust smoke, but you might not always be able to see it. That’s because by the time the exhaust is leaving your car, it’s mostly been converted and reduced so that it’s less harmful to the environment. If you’re seeing a lot of smoke coming out of the exhaust and especially if it’s dark in color, you may be way overdue for an oil change.
Oil Levels Are Lower than They Should Be
If you’re in the habit of checking your car’s oil in between oil changes, and you should be, that can help you to spot when oil levels drop. Oil breaks down as it does its job and some of it burns off. That’s why your car starts out with more oil right after an oil change than it typically has when you get the oil changed out. If you’re noticing that oil levels are lower than they should be and it’s before you are supposed to get the oil changed, you really need to get the car checked out.
Gas Mileage Is Super Low
Fuel mileage numbers can warn you about a variety of issues with your car’s engine, and just one of them includes that you need to get the oil changed. Tracking your fuel mileage on a regular basis is an easy way to quickly see when you might have anything going on with your car’s engine. It takes some practice getting used to it at first, but if you use an app it’s super easy to do.
There’s an Oil Leak Under the Car
Spotted an oil leak under your car? Don’t ignore it. That oil leak, whether it’s a tiny one or not, is a sign that there’s something wrong. The oil filter could be clogged or there could be a faulty seal somewhere that’s letting oil out. None of that is good news in the long run.
We’re always happy to help with service and repairs, even just regular maintenance, here at The Auto Shop of Chapin in Chapin, SC. Give us a call today to set up a service appointment.