Five Obvious Signs that Your Car Needs to Change Oil

Sometimes life gets in the way of the plans we had in mind. Whether it’s a missed PTA meeting, a forgotten dentist appointment, or waiting until the last minute to get your oil changed, life happens. 

While we might not be able to offer assistance with that other stuff, you can have peace of mind knowing that your Toyota vehicle is great at sending you signals that an oil change is needed. 

The following are only a few of these telltale signs. So you should pay close attention. 

Check Engine or Oil Change Light

Any Toyota dealer will tell you that this is a sure sign that you must pay attention to your car’s needs. If you are using a monitoring system, it will indicate that your vehicle needs attention. You can heed the warning by either checking the engine oil level or going to the dealer.

If you have noticed this light, driving your Toyota to the nearest garage is necessary. Ignoring it will lead to disastrous consequences. 

Engine Noise

If you hear any unusual noise while driving, you'll need to get off the road and check the car. The noise could be anything from a knocking to a loud popping sound. There is no denying this is another sign you need to act on. There's no guarantee an oil change is going to solve the problem as your vehicle could need a repair instead. Still, an oil change is a good place to start. 

Dark, Dirty Oil

If you open your car’s hood and see dark, dirty oil, it is another obvious sign that you need to change the oil. It may not be as urgent as the check engine light, but it is still something to look out for.

If you keep deferring the task, it can damage your car. It might also lead to a more severe problem that worsens the situation. Trust us, you don’t want to let this sign pass you by.

Oily Smell

If you start smelling something that smells like an oil-burning, it is a good sign that you need to change your oil. The odour might get worse. Should this happen, it’s time to take action before your car suffers an oil leak or something worse. If you ignore this  signal, you might risk burning your car’s engine. 

Exhaust Smoke

If you notice smoke coming out of your exhaust, it is a sign that you need to change the oil asap. If you keep driving and ignore the smokee, you will damage the engine. It is a sign that the oil is not doing its job.

Conclusion

Your Toyota has many signs to show you that you need to change your engine oil. If you notice any of them, it’s time to book an appointment. 

Let the mechanic do the job. Otherwise, you will end up paying for the damages.

If you have other concerns about your Toyota, contact Nelson Toyota’s service centre. From oil changes to serious repairs, expert technicians will ensure you’re well taken care of! As a seasoned Toyota dealer, we can help figure out what is wrong with your car. Do not wait another minute - book an appointment now!