How often do you change your car’s oil? If you can’t remember the previous time you had an oil change, it’s probably been too long. When it comes to car maintenance, one of the most critical things you can do is keep up with regular oil changes, especially if you want to avoid costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly.
At GIC Car Clinic, we recommend getting your oil changed every 3,000 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Contact us today at (408) 279-5510 to schedule an oil change in San Jose, CA! However, if you’re not one to keep up with your car’s maintenance schedule, keep in mind these telltale signs indicating it’s time for an oil change.
1. The Oil Light Comes On
The oil light is one of the easiest ways to know it’s time for an oil change. If it comes on in your car, it means that the oil pressure inside your engine is low and needs to be replenished. A drop in oil pressure can be caused by several things, such as oil leaks, oil sludge, or simply being low on oil.
The oil keeps all of the moving parts within your engine lubricated and running smoothly. When oil levels get low, it can cause friction between these parts, leading to expensive damage.
2. Your Exhaust Smells Bad
If you notice your car’s exhaust smells bad, it could be a sign that your oil needs to be changed. When oil breaks down, it can start to form sludge, which can clog up your engine and cause your car to emit strange smells.
3. You’ve Been Driving a Lot
If you’ve been putting a lot of miles on your car lately, it’s probably time for an oil change. Most mechanics recommend getting a professional oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, although this number can differ depending on the model and make of your car as well as the type of oil used. If you’re not sure how often to change your oil, consult your car’s owner’s manual or ask a mechanic.
4. Strange Engine Noises
Another sign that you need an oil change is if your engine starts to make strange noises. If you notice your car making a knocking sound when you start it up, this is a sign of low oil pressure and means you’re due for an oil change.
If you hear any other strange noises coming from your engine, such as hissing or bubbling sounds, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic right away to have it checked out. These could be signs of bigger issues beyond just needing an oil change.
What Happens If You Don’t Keep Up with Oil Changes?
If you don’t keep up with oil changes, it can cause some serious damage to your car. Not changing your oil can also cause your engine to overheat. Since oil helps keep the engine cool, a lack of oil or dirty oil can cause the engine to overwork and eventually overheat. This could do some serious damage to your engine that may be irreversible.
Schedule an Oil Change in San Jose, CA
If it’s been a while since your last oil change, or if you’re due for one based on the mileage on your car, don’t wait any longer.
At GIC Car Clinic, we provide oil change services in San Jose, CA to help keep your car running smoothly. We can also check for any other issues that may be causing your car problems and recommend the best course of action.
With a 3-year/36,000-mile worldwide guarantee, GIC Car Clinic is committed to providing superior car care to our community. Our Certified Master Technicians and service professionals will help you experience the value and benefits of specialized car maintenance. We are a top-tier team of professionals who will do it right the first time and personalize our planned services to your exact requirements.
Contact us today at (408) 279-5510 to schedule an appointment!