Do you check your car’s engine oil regularly?
Engine oil isn’t an item that you should routinely check unless you plan on going for long road trips. However, checking your engine oil regularly isn’t a bad idea since the engine oil lubricates the engine and prevents it from overheating. Thus, knowing how to tell if your engine oil is bad is important.
To help, we’ve compiled a few helpful hints that will teach you how to check the engine oil. This way, you’ll know if it’s time to replace it.
Check Your Oil Level Regularly
It is important to check your oil level regularly to ensure that your engine oil is not bad. If your engine oil is bad, it can cause your engine to seize up, which can lead to expensive repairs.
To check your oil level, simply remove the dipstick from your engine and wipe it off with a clean cloth. Insert the dipstick back into your engine and then remove it again to check the oil level. If the oil level is low, add more oil until it reaches the full line on the dipstick.
Look for Dark, Dirty Oil
If you want to know if your engine oil is bad, look for dark, dirty oil. This is a sure sign that the oil is breaking down and can no longer protect your engine. If you see this, it’s time to change your oil.
Listen for Strange Noises From Your Engine
If you notice any strange noises coming from your engine, it could be a sign that your engine oil is bad. Engine oil helps to lubricate your engine and keep it running smoothly.
If it becomes dirty or low, it can cause your engine to make strange knocking noises. Checking your engine oil regularly and changing it when necessary can help to prevent these issues.
Check for Excessive Engine Wear
If your engine oil is bad, it can cause excessive engine wear. This is because the oil breaks down and can no longer lubricate the engine parts. This can cause the parts to rub together and wear down. Checking for excessive engine wear is important to prevent this from happening.
Check Exhaust Smoke
You also need to check exhaust smoke or emissions to tell if your engine oil is bad to help prevent engine damage. When oil breaks down, it produces deposits that can clog oil passages and cause blockages in the engine.
These blockages can restrict oil flow, which can lead to engine damage. Checking exhaust smoke can help you identify these blockages and take steps to prevent bad engine oil from causing engine damage.
See If the Oil Change or Check Engine Light is On
If you wait until your oil change or check engine light is on to check your engine oil, it may be too late. By then, the oil may have already caused damage to your engine. So make sure to keep an eye on this light on your dashboard to know if you need an oil change.
Checking for Bad Engine Oil is Essential
Checking your engine oil regularly can help you avoid any costly repairs or services. If you’re unsure about your engine oil, play it safe and bring your car in for a professional opinion.
At the very least, check your oil level and color regularly to help prolong the life of your engine!
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