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Oil changes are critical for a properly maintained and adequately functioning vehicle. There are many benefits to going to your local auto repair shop and getting an oil change, among them are getting better gas mileage, reduction of sludge build-up, extending the life of your engine and vehicle, and so much more. However, without oil changes, your vehicle’s performance will become hindered and your vehicle’s value will decrease due to the amount of damage and repairs the vehicle will inevitably endure. There are several indicators of a vehicle needing an oil change. Here are 3 major indicators that your car needs an oil change:

Dashboard Lights Are On

Your check engine light and oil service light are two obvious signs that your car is in need of maintenance. Your oil service light is a definite indication that your car needs an oil change. If your check engine light is on, it could mean you need an oil change or a number of other things. Don’t let your check engine light remain on for too long--any damages that your vehicle is alerting you to can worsen over time and result in expensive damage and an unsafe ride. Go to your local auto repair shop for an oil change or any other auto services you may need.

Uncharacteristic Noises

If you’re hearing noises under your hood that you don’t normally hear, this can be a really bad sign. Take it to an auto repair service shop near Lake Elmo MN to determine the reason these noises are occurring. Uncharacteristic noises under your hood could indicate several things, one of them being that your car is in need of an oil change. Your oil should be lubricating your engine parts, and old and dirty oil won’t lubricate your engine as well as fresh oil. This can become dangerous because your engine can quickly overheat without proper lubrication. Not getting an oil change regularly can be the cause of bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road. Ensure you get your oil changed every 3,000-5,000 miles to prevent problems under the hood.

Low Oil Level

Checking your oil is one of the best ways to ensure your vehicle has enough oil to function properly. It also helps you determine the quality of your oil. If you notice that your oil is a translucent amber color, your oil is clean and most likely lubricates your engine parts adequately. However, if your oil is dark and opaque, this indicates dirty oil and that you should get an oil change soon. Checking your oil is a quick and efficient way to determine if your oil level is low. To check your oil, first make sure your vehicle is sitting on flat ground and your engine is cool. Pop your hood, locate your oil dipstick and take it out, wiping it clean on a rag. Then, insert the dipstick back into the tube, pull it out once again, and look at the tip to determine your oil level. If your oil is a light color and between the lines, great! Otherwise, dark and dirty oil that falls below the lower line on your dipstick is a major indicator that you need an oil change service. 

Your dashboard lights, uncharacteristic noises under the hood, and a low oil level are all major signs that you need an oil change as soon as possible. Contact Tire Pros & Wheel Experts to get your oil changed or for any of our other automotive services.