Oil checks

Regular car maintenance and Oil checks are essential for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs down the road. One of the most crucial aspects of car maintenance is checking the oil. Engine oil is the lifeblood of any vehicle and lubricating the engine’s moving parts ensures everything operates smoothly.

But how often should you check the oil in your car, and what signs indicate that it might be low? Let’s look into this and discuss what actions you should take if you find that your oil level is low:

How Often Should You Check Your Car’s Oil?

For most drivers, checking the oil once a month is a good rule of thumb. However, this can vary depending on a few factors:

  1. Age of the Vehicle: Older cars tend to burn more oil, so if your vehicle is more than ten years old, you may want to check the oil more frequently.
  2. Driving Conditions: If you frequently drive in harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures, stop-and-go traffic, or long distances, your engine may consume more oil. In such cases, checking the oil every two weeks might be more appropriate.
  3. Mileage: If you drive a lot, say over 1,000 miles a month, it’s wise to check your oil every couple of weeks. High mileage can lead to increased oil consumption.
  4. Recent Oil Changes: If you’ve just had your oil changed, checking it after a week to ensure everything is in order is a good practice. Afterward, you can revert to a monthly check.

Oil checks at Crescent Motoring Services in Burton

Signs Your Oil Might Be Low

Even if you’re diligent about checking your oil regularly, there are still signs that could indicate your oil level is low:

  1. Oil Warning Light: The most obvious sign is the oil warning light on your dashboard. If this light comes on, it’s a clear indication that your oil level is low or there’s an issue with the oil pressure. Do not ignore this light—address it immediately and contact Crescent Motoring Services on 01283 509000.
  2. Engine Noises: If you hear unusual noises like ticking or knocking coming from the engine, it could be a sign that your engine isn’t getting enough lubrication due to low oil levels. The oil helps to dampen the sounds of the engine’s moving parts. Without enough oil, these parts start to grind against each other.
  3. Overheating: Oil helps cool the engine by reducing friction. If your engine is overheating, it might be due to low oil levels. While overheating can be caused by several issues, low oil is a common culprit which is why Oil checks are so important.
  4. Burning Oil Smell: If you notice a strong burning oil smell, especially after driving, it could indicate that oil is leaking onto hot engine parts, which usually happens when oil levels are low.
  5. Exhaust Smoke: Blue or dark exhaust smoke is another sign that your engine may be burning oil. This is often a sign of serious issues, like an oil leak but it can also indicate low oil levels.

What to Do If Your Oil Is Low

If you discover that your oil level is low, here’s what you should do:

✅Top Off the Oil: If you’re on the road and notice your oil is low, the immediate solution is to add more oil. Make sure to use the correct type of oil specified in your car’s manual. Fill it up slowly, checking the dipstick until you reach the recommended level. This can prevent immediate damage to your engine, but it’s only a temporary fix.

✅Check for Leaks: Low oil levels are often caused by leaks. After adding oil, inspect your car’s engine bay and undercarriage for signs of leaking oil. Common spots include around the oil pan, the drain plug, and the area around the valve covers.

✅Schedule a Professional Inspection at Crescent Motors: If your oil level was low enough to trigger the warning light, it’s a good idea to have your car checked by a car technician as soon as possible. We can diagnose whether there’s a leak, excessive oil consumption, or another underlying issue.

✅Change the Oil If Necessary: Sometimes, the issue isn’t just the oil level but the oil itself. If your oil looks dark, gritty, or smells burnt, it’s time for an oil change. Old or degraded oil doesn’t lubricate as effectively and can lead to engine damage.

✅Monitor the Situation: After topping off the oil, keep an eye on the level over the next few days or weeks. If it drops quickly, you likely have a leak or another issue that needs addressing. Frequent low oil levels shouldn’t be ignored, as they can lead to significant engine damage over time.

So, regular Oil checks are a simple, yet critical task in maintaining your vehicle’s health. By staying on top of your oil levels and being aware of the signs of low oil, you can avoid costly repairs and extend the life of the engine. Remember, if you ever find yourself unsure or uncomfortable handling oil-related issues, it’s always best to consult with a professional. Your car and your wallet will thank you in the long run!

Crescent Motors are always here to help so don’t hesitate to get in touch. Call us on 01283 509000 or email info@crescentmotoringservices.com. As an alternative, you can always contact us through our website too.