As a responsible car owner, you should think about changing its engine oil on a regular basis. Most cars would require an engine oil change once every 3 months or in between 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers.

However, every vehicle is different and that’s why you should be aware of the signs that indicate the right time to change engine oil. Read on and let’s take a look at those signs in detail.

Your Mileage Reaches the Recommended Limit

Most mechanics and oil change facilities will place a windshield sticker to remind you when your next oil change is due based on your car’s mileage. For conventional oil, it’s typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months.

For synthetic blends it may be 5,000 miles. Refer to your owner’s manual to understand the oil change frequency recommendation for your specific make and model. When you’ve driven that distance since your last oil change, schedule a new one right away.

The Oil Light Comes On

Your car has an oil pressure warning light typically shaped like an oil can or dripping oil. When this indicator light comes on, it means oil levels are low or oil pressure is low because the oil is breaking down.

Pull over safely, turn off your engine immediately and have your car towed to a mechanic. Driving with this warning light on can cause serious engine damage. Getting an oil change right away can help avoid this dangerous situation.

You Notice Leaks Under Your Car

If you consistently find oil spots or stains on your garage floor or driveway where you park, this likely means your engine has an oil leak. Something may be loose or worn out, allowing oil to drip.

Fresh engine oil can help seal these leaks temporarily, but you’ll still want to get the leak repaired. A mechanic can diagnosis the source of the leak. Catching oil leaks early prevents serious damage.

Your Oil Looks Dirty or Thick

Check your oil dipstick or underside oil plug periodically to examine the quality and consistency of your engine oil. Pull out the dipstick and rub the oil between your fingers. Fresh conventional oil feels smooth and slippery. Synthetic oil may vary in texture based on the brand.

Over time and miles, engine oil picks up debris and contaminants turning it from golden to dark brown or black. It also loses its slickness and becomes thicker. If you notice these dirty oil warning signs, new oil can remove these engine gunk deposits.

Your Car Isn’t Running Right

Pay attention to changes in your car’s performance that can indicate worn out oil. Some signs your engine needs fresh oil include:

• Difficult starts – It may take longer for your engine to turn over or struggle to ignite. Oil provides lubrication for ultimate compression.
• Engine noises – Listen for new squeaks, squeals or clattering sounds that could stem from low oil flow in the valvetrain or other parts.
• Lack of power – If your car seems underpowered, feels sluggish or isn’t accelerating as it should, dirty oil may be the culprit.
• Higher operating temperatures – Oil cools internal engine components. Thick, broken down oil can lead to overheating.
• Increased exhaust emissions – Poor performing oil allows more blow-by gases past worn piston rings into the air.

Your Car Has High Mileage

If your vehicle has accumulated 75,000 miles or more, it’s a good idea to switch to synthetic oil if you haven’t already. Conventional oil tends to break down more rapidly at higher mileages.

Synthetic motor oils outperform regular oils when it comes to:

• Cold weather performance – Synthetics flow better in sub-zero temps to prevent wear during start-up.
• Heat resistance – They withstand high engine temperatures with less evaporation and oil burn-off.
• Contaminant control – The molecular structure of synthetics fights deposit buildups.
• Longer change intervals – Some synthetics can drive up to 15,000 miles or 1 year before needing an oil change. Check your manual.

The improved durability of synthetic oil allows better protection for aging, high-mileage engines vulnerable to sludge, clogs and leaks.

You Change Your Driving Habits

How you drive and use your vehicle impacts how often oil changes are needed. Consider modifying your regular oil change schedule if:

• You haul heavy loads frequently – This puts extra strain on the oil.
• You drive aggressively – High RPMs breakdown oil more rapidly.
• You take frequent short trips – Condensation builds up in the oil.
• You drive mostly in stop-and-go traffic – Causes more heating and contaminants to dirty the oil.
• You idle your engine excessively – Leads to fuel dilution contamination.
• You drive in extremely hot or cold temps – Causes faster oil oxidation and acids.

Keep tally of your total miles as well as your typical daily engine run times and driving conditions between oil changes. Increased intensity of use warrants shortened oil change intervals. Your regional climate also impacts oil life. Talk to your technician.

Final Words

Remember, waiting too long between oil changes or ignoring signs you need a new oil filter can put your engine at risk. Regular oil and filter changes protect your car’s performance and extend the lifespan of seals, gaskets and internal components. Follow your manufacturer’s oil type and change interval recommendations. And watch for these 5 key indicators it’s time to swap out old oil for new. Keeping fresh oil flowing prevents expensive repairs down the road.