Chris Auffenberg

What Are Common Signs That Your Car Needs an Oil Change? 

Putting off your next oil change is never a good idea. By the time you start seeing these common signs that you need an oil change, you may have already damaged parts of your engine. At Chris Auffenberg, our first recommendation is to follow manufacturer guidelines and get an oil change at the recommended mileage. If you’re behind schedule or seeing any of the common warning signs below, don’t wait to schedule your next oil change at our dealership in Raleigh, NC. 

Four Common Signs Your Car Needs an Oil Change 

If you’re following your owner’s manual for recommended maintenance, you likely won’t run into any issues. If, on the other hand, you’ve gone past the recommended maintenance schedule and are wondering if your car really needs an oil change, look out for these four common warning signs. 

Dark Oil on the Dipstick 

The easiest way to know you need an oil change is to familiarize yourself with your car’s oil. Oil can turn darker and grittier as it ages. Checking your engine oil regularly with the dipstick will help you keep track of any changes in your engine oil. 

Loud Knocking Noises When Your Car Turns On 

Before you even accelerate, you may notice loud knocking noises when you turn your car on. These are good indicators that your engine oil has passed its usefulness. Get your car to a dealership as soon as possible to replace the engine oil. 

Sluggish Acceleration When You Drive 

If your car feels like it’s taking longer to get from zero to sixty or even from twenty to thirty-five, your car probably needs an oil change. If you’re feeling sluggish acceleration, don’t wait to change your oil, or you could end up needing more expensive repairs. 

Exhaust Smoke or Burning Oil Smell 

Excessive exhaust smoke or a burning oil smell are both warning signs that you need an oil change. It’s never a bad idea to pay attention to any odd smell that your car produces.