Top Warning Signs That Your Car Needs an Oil Change

One of the most important vehicle maintenance procedures is oil change, which directly affects the operation of the engine and transmission. Neglecting this process leads to serious breakdowns and costly repairs. Let's look at the main signs that will indicate to you that it is time to perform an engine oil change.

Unusual Engine Noises

When the engine is running normally, its sounds are usually smooth and familiar. However, if you start to hear unusual noises (knocking, grinding or even humming), this is a clear signal that something is wrong. One of the most common causes of these noises can be worn or contaminated engine oil.

Engine oil performs several basic functions in an engine: it lubricates moving parts, prevents friction, cools the engine and protects it from contaminants. Over time, it loses its properties and becomes contaminated with small metal particles or combustion products. This leads to contamination and thickening of the oil, which is no longer able to perform its basic functions. 

As a result, engine components rub against each other harder, causing those strange sounds. If you don't pay attention to this, the problem will only get worse: wear and tear on the parts will accelerate, leading to serious engine failure.

It is therefore important to change the oil regularly, especially if you use full synthetic oil), which has a longer life but also requires regular renewal. Neglecting oil changes not only leads to noises, but also to engine overheating, which carries serious risks.

If you hear unusual sounds, do not delay a visit to a lube shop - it may be possible to solve the problem with a simple oil change.

Dashboard Oil Light is On

When the oil indicator light on your dashboard comes on, it's an obvious sign that your vehicle is in urgent need of diagnosis and possibly an oil change. This indicator not only warns of low oil level, but also signals other problems related to the engine's lubrication system.

The main reasons for the oil indicator light to come on are

Low oil level

• The amount of oil in the engine has dropped below the minimum allowable level. When this happens, it becomes more difficult for the engine to lubricate its components, which increases friction and can lead to overheating.

Low oil pressure

• If the oil is dirty or too thick, its circulation is impaired, causing a drop in system pressure. This is a dangerous point, as lack of lubrication can cause serious engine damage.

Deterioration of oil quality 

• Over time, engine oil loses its properties, especially if it is not changed regularly. If the oil is contaminated, its efficiency is greatly reduced.

Do not ignore the indicator light, as this can lead to costly repairs. Timely oil change is the main factor that will help to avoid such situations.

Thick, Dark, or Dirty Oil

Engine oil initially has a light, amber color and liquid consistency. As the engine runs, it begins to darken, thicken and become contaminated with various particles, which is a natural consequence of its use. However, if you notice that the oil has become too dark, thick or dirty, this is a signal that it needs to be changed as soon as possible.

Why it matters?

Loss of lubricating properties

• When oil becomes contaminated with fuel combustion products, dust, and metal particles, it loses its primary function - its ability to effectively lubricate engine components. This increases friction between parts and accelerates wear.

Impaired heat dissipation

• Clean oil helps cool the engine by drawing excess heat away from its components. Thick and dirty oil does not do this, which can lead to engine overheating and even engine failure.

Reduced engine performance

• Oil that is too thick and dirty makes it difficult for the engine to operate, forcing it to function with more effort. This leads to poor performance and increased fuel consumption.

Even if you use full synthetic oil, which has a higher resistance to oxidation and contamination, it also loses its properties over time. Synthetic oils tend to last longer, but they still require regular changes, especially if you operate your car in heavy city driving or in extreme temperature changes.

Checking the condition of your oil is an easy way to tell when it's time to change it. Simply pull out the dipstick, wipe it with a clean cloth, and dip it back into the engine oil. If the oil looks dark, thick, or has dirt particles on it, it's a clear sign that it's no longer doing its job and needs to be changed.

Sluggish Performance or Transmission Issues

When your car starts to lose its usual dynamism - the engine runs sluggish, acceleration becomes slow, and shifting gears is difficult - it may indicate oil problems not only in the engine, but also in the transmission. These signs are often associated with the need for a transmission oil change and automatic transmission fluid replacement.

How does this affect the performance of the vehicle?

Reduced performance

• When the oil in your engine or transmission is too thick or dirty, it reduces the effectiveness of lubricating the parts to keep them running smoothly. At the same time, the engine and transmission operate under increased load, which creates a slower response to the gas pedal and leads to an overall decrease in vehicle performance. 

Transmission problems

• Automatic transmissions rely heavily on quality transmission fluid to ensure smooth gear changes. If the automatic transmission fluid becomes contaminated or loses its properties, you may notice jerky, delayed gear changes or a “slipping” feeling in the gears. This is a direct signal that the fluid needs to be replaced. Failure to do so could result in damage to internal transmission components and costly repairs.

Transmission overheating

• Automatic transmission fluid not only lubricates but also cools its components. Poor quality oil (old or contaminated) will not dissipate heat effectively, which can lead to overheating and even transmission failure.

To keep your transmission and engine running optimally, it is important to check the oil regularly and change it if necessary. Changing transmission oil and automatic transmission fluid should be part of regular maintenance, especially if your vehicle shows signs of slow running or shifting problems.

Get High-Quality Oils and Lubricants at Lube Squad

You don't want to put off oil changes and maintenance on your vehicle. Contact Lube Squad to keep your engine and transmission running smoothly at all times. We offer only the highest quality oils and lubricants, including fully synthetic oil and automatic transmission fluids.

Our experienced technicians will help you find the best options to solve your problems and perform timely engine oil and transmission oil changes.

Take care of your car - visit Lube Squad, and we will provide professional service for your car!