What are the signs that a car needs an oil change?
2 Answers
Signs that a car needs an oil change: 1. The engine noise becomes louder, and the oil becomes thinner; 2. The oil pressure warning light may come on, indicating low oil pressure. Engine oil is referred to as the lifeblood of the engine, playing roles in lubrication, cleaning, sealing, heat dissipation, buffering, and rust prevention within the engine. Engine oil consists of two parts: base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of the lubricant, determining its basic properties, while the additives compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil, granting it new properties, making them an important part of the lubricant. Under harsh operating conditions, only qualified engine oil can reduce wear on engine parts and extend their service life.
As an experienced driver who frequently drives, I've noticed that the most obvious signs of needing an oil change are increased or rougher engine noise, especially during acceleration, when the engine feels less smooth—this is typically a sign of insufficient lubrication. Another warning is a sudden increase in fuel consumption; if you find yourself refueling more often without changing your driving habits, it's time to pay attention. The color change of the oil is also crucial. When checking with the dipstick regularly, if the oil appears dark black or overly viscous, it indicates severe contamination and reduced effectiveness in cleaning the engine. Ignoring these early signs may lead to component wear or even major repairs. Therefore, I recommend checking the oil condition every 5,000 kilometers—don't wait for the dashboard warning light to take action. Preventive measures can save you a lot of trouble.
