Checking your car’s oil may seem like an annoying chore, but it’s one of the most crucial aspects of vehicle maintenance. Some car owners fail to regularly monitor their oil, and this results in both engine damage and hefty repair costs. We’ve put together this guide to help you understand the signs that your car is in need of an oil change

Read below to learn more.

Signs That Your Car Needs an Oil Change

Watch out for these warning signs that could indicate if your car is in need of an oil change.

Odd engine noises

Car engines rely on oil to stay lubricated. When you have low oil levels or the wrong oil viscosity in your engine, it can cause knocking or ticking sounds. If you ignore these sounds for too long, your engine can severely damage itself due to friction.

Oil light is on

One of the most obvious signs that you need to check your oil is when the dashboard light comes on. However, when this light comes on, it doesn’t automatically mean you need an oil change. Some car models have an indicator go off when you reach a certain mileage, or the sensor itself could be broken. Make sure you double-check the oil via the dipstick.

Dirty oil

Over time, oil collects particles and debris from the engine, which can cause it to turn black or dark brown. Clean, fresh oil should be amber and see-through. Check your dipstick at least once a month to ensure your oil looks fine. If you notice that your oil looks milky or has a white residue, take your car in for service right away. This could indicate a major problem with your engine.

Schedule an Oil Change in Fair Lawn, NJ

Have you noticed any of these warning signs with your car? Then it might be time to bring it in for an oil change. Schedule a service appointment at Jack Daniels Volkswagen in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, and let our expertly trained technicians have a look. We’ll have your car fixed up and back out on the road in no time.