How Often Should I Check My Vehicle's Oil?
Changing the oil in your vehicle is one of the most important maintenance items you can do to keep your vehicle running. Putting it off for a long time only damages the engine.
Little Wolf Express Lube in Plover, WI makes an oil change quick and easy. It’s not as much of a chore as in other places.
With short wait times and quality oil and filters, you know your vehicle’s engine will be efficient.
How Often Should I Check the Oil in My Vehicle?
Because a vehicle could develop an oil leak at any time, you should check the oil once per month. As an engine racks up the miles, the tolerances get larger. This means the vehicle will use more oil.
If you are not in the habit of checking the oil at least once per month, then you should make that a habit.
How to Check the Oil
Locate the oil dipstick.
When the vehicle is warm, pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean. Stick it back in, ensuring that it clicks into place.
Pull the dipstick out again to check the oil. It should be at the “Full” mark. If not, it should be at the top of the crosshatches or the at the hole furthest away from the bottom of the dipstick.
Should I Use Synthetic Oil When I Get an Oil Change?
Most manufacturers recommend synthetic oil or a synthetic mix.
If you have an older vehicle that still uses regular oil, ask your mechanic if you should switch to synthetic oil. It lasts longer than regular (natural) oil, especially in hot climates and during towing.
How Do I Know When I Need an Oil Change?
The manufacturer includes a recommended interval for changing the oil in the owner’s manual. But if the oil is thick and dark, it’s past time for an oil change.
Other signs that you need an oil change—though the damage has already been done—are:
- The engine ticks or knocks. Knocking is worse than ticking. If you hear ticking, it’s in the top end—you hear the valves ticking because not enough oil is getting to the valves. If you hear a knocking, the problem is in the bottom end—the bearings did not get enough oil.
- The oil change light is on, or the oil pressure gauge reads low.
If you see blue exhaust smoke, the engine is burning oil. The oil gets past the piston rings and goes out through the exhaust.
What Do I Do With Used Oil?
The oil must be disposed of at an approved disposal place. Some auto parts stores take used oil, but they will probably charge you.
It’s easier to let a shop change the oil. You don’t have to worry about the disposal of empty oil bottles, filters, or oil. And you won’t have a dirty oil drain pan hanging around your garage.
Contact Little Wolf Express Lube
When it’s time to change the oil in Plover, WI, bring your vehicle to Little Wolf Express Lube in Plover. You do not need an appointment, and we’ll have you in and out in no time.
