Reliable Oil Change Service Near Madison, WV

Fresh, high-quality motor oil is essential to your vehicle's health and performance. It keeps the engine clean and its parts lubricated, explaining why car owners must stay on top of oil changes. However, this task can fall by the wayside when you have other responsibilities to juggle.

Have you been skipping oil changes? If you have, chances are your car is already showing symptoms of distress. Here are some signs your vehicle needs one ASAP. Head to Thornhill Ford if you need an oil change near Madison, WV. We also offer auto service coupons to make maintenance more affordable to our customers.

Signs Your Vehicle Needs an Oil Change

Without regular oil changes and filter replacements, your vehicle can become problematic, unreliable, and potentially dangerous. Here are the telltale signs your car needs an oil change ASAP:

Unusual Engine Noises

If your engine is noisier than usual, making ticking or knocking noises, that's a sign of old, ineffective oil. Motor oil reduces friction between your engine's parts, allowing them to work together smoothly. As the oil gets older, thinner, and dirtier, it loses effectiveness. That's when you'll notice your engine becoming louder. Ignoring the noises can lead to engine damage and expensive repairs.

Dirty Oil

Clean oil should be slightly translucent with a gold or amber hue. The more it moves through the engine, the more particles it will collect, turning darker. This change won't be immediately noticeable, so check your oil at least once a month.

You can do so by removing the dipstick, wiping it off, and putting it back in the oil tank. Take it out again and check if you can see the dipstick through the oil. It's time for an oil change if you can't. In addition, check the oil's texture. If it's thick, gritty, or grainy, it's time for new oil.

Low Oil Level

Another sign your car needs an oil change is if there's not enough of it. You risk permanently damaging your vehicle's engine if you keep driving it with insufficient oil. You can check your oil level by pulling the dipstick out, wiping it clean, and putting it back in the tank. Remove it once more and check where the oil hits the dipstick. It should be between the minimum and maximum lines. Bring your vehicle in for an oil change if it's below the minimum level.

Dashboard Warnings

If your vehicle has a built-in warning system, it will let you know if it's time for an oil change. The oil change light will turn on when there's insufficient oil in the system. That's your cue to check the dipstick and see where the oil level is.

If the check engine light comes on, it's a grave warning that your engine is at risk of damage because of a lack of lubrication or problematic parts. That means it's time to bring in your vehicle for professional servicing.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency

If your vehicle isn't as fuel-efficient as it once was, the oil could be the culprit. Old oil can't do its job properly, causing the engine to work harder than it should. That additional effort reduces your car's fuel economy, meaning more trips to the gas station. It's time for an oil change if you notice a significant drop in your vehicle's miles per gallon. Reduced power, sluggish acceleration, and stalling are other red flags you shouldn't ignore.

Smoke From the Exhaust

Seeing smoke billowing from your vehicle's exhaust pipe is never a good sign. Skipping oil changes can cause the oil to burn or leak, resulting in a bluish or white smoke emission. That's a clear warning that there's something wrong with your engine and that you probably need an oil change.

Burning Smell

If you notice an unpleasant, acrid, or burning odor inside your car, that's likely the engine overheating. Check the temperature gauge to confirm your suspicions. If your oil is dirty or running low, it'll struggle to cool down your engine. A burning smell can also be a sign of an oil leak. Either way, it's crucial to schedule an oil change immediately.

Schedule an Oil Change Service at Thornhill Ford

Changing your vehicle's oil is one of the most essential responsibilities of a car owner. Our team at Thornhill Ford is ready to help you with this task. Head to our Ford service center if you need an oil change near Madison, WV. We'll ensure your vehicle gets top-notch service.