Oil is an important part of a car. Oil functions as the "blood" of the car. The way oil works is to lubricate the car engine, so that the car can move properly.
Signs that your car oil needs to be changed immediately
Changing the oil in a car is very important. This is because the oil will degrade and lose its ability to maintain the engine over time. Rarely changing the oil will make the engine in the car age quickly or break down. So, how do you know when your car oil really needs to be changed? Here are some indications or signs that the car needs to have its oil changed immediately.
The oil indicator light is on
This is the clearest sign to change your car oil immediately. This light is designed to make it easier for car users to know the suitability or age of the oil.
Black and dark oil color
If you ignore the first sign and then forget the last oil change date, you can check the physical appearance of your car's oil. If the oil is dark or turning black, this is a sign that the oil really needs to be changed. New oil is usually golden yellow. Oil can turn black due to residue produced by the combustion process in the car engine. If you don't change your car's oil, it will certainly affect the engine's performance and lifespan.
Engine performance decreases
A new car engine or a well-maintained engine certainly produces a comfortable driving experience for its users. If you feel that your car engine is starting to slow down and is not as responsive as usual, this could be because the oil is no longer suitable or thick. Thick oil is certainly no longer an effective lubricant for the engine. Unsuitable oil, such as dirty oil, will also slow down engine performance.
Noisy engine sound
Oil lubrication in the engine can reduce the noisy sound produced by the car engine. If the car is already making an uncomfortable noisy sound, it means that the engine in the car is lacking lubrication. This is a sign for you to change the oil immediately.
Excessive exhaust smoke
Under normal conditions with oil that is still suitable for use, cars generally emit thin smoke or just steam. Dark or black smoke indicates that there is something wrong with the combustion process. This can be caused by car users rarely changing the car's oil.
Wasteful fuel
Dirty or unusable oil will certainly affect the effectiveness of fuel use. This is because oil also functions to help the combustion process. Without proper oil, the engine will work harder and consume more fuel. If you feel that your fuel is more wasteful, this could be a sign that there is something wrong with your car's oil or maybe you should change your car's oil immediately.
Burning oil smell in the cabin
This is the most obvious sign and it is imperative that you change the oil immediately. This smell can be caused by an oil leak that hits the hot part of the engine. In addition, oil that is no longer functioning properly can become too hot, creating a pungent odor. In cases like this, you should immediately have your car checked at a repair shop.
The engine feels hot quickly
Oil lubrication certainly helps friction on the engine smoother. If the engine feels hotter, this could be a sign that the oil as a lubricant needs to be replaced.
Excessive vibration at idle
If your car feels like it’s vibrating more than usual at idle, it could be a sign that the oil isn’t lubricating the engine properly. Excessive vibration occurs due to friction between engine components that oil is supposed to minimize. Check the condition of your oil immediately to make sure there are no further problems.
Is it important to have an oil change schedule?
Every car manufacturer certainly recommends an oil change schedule. Changing oil regularly and periodically can be a form of long-term investment. By changing oil regularly, car owners can minimize the risk of damage to the car engine. Which damage can cost more. Not only about the cost, changing oil also keeps driving comfortable. Don't delay changing your car's oil if you start to feel the signs above.