How often do you change your car’s oil? If you can’t remember the previous time you had an oil change, it’s probably been too long. When it comes to car maintenance, one of the most critical things you can do is keep up with regular oil changes, especially if you want to avoid costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly.
At Juke Auto, we recommend getting your oil changed every 3,000 miles or every 3 months, whichever comes first, if you use conventional oil. For synthetic oil, we recommend getting an oil change every 6,000 miles or 6 months. Contact us today at (512) 385-5853 to schedule an oil change in Austin, TX! However, if you’re not one to keep up with your car’s maintenance schedule, keep in mind these telltale signs indicating it’s time for an oil change.
1. You’ve Been Driving a Lot
If you’ve been putting a lot of miles on your car lately, it’s probably time for an oil change. Most mechanics recommend getting a professional oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, although this number can differ depending on the model and make of your car as well as the type of oil used. If you’re not sure how often to change your oil, consult your car’s owner’s manual or ask a mechanic.
2. Strange Engine Noises
Another sign that you need an oil change is if your engine starts to make strange noises. If you notice your car making a knocking sound when you start it up, this is a sign of low oil pressure and means you’re due for an oil change.
If you hear any other strange noises coming from your engine, such as hissing or bubbling sounds, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic right away to have it checked out. These could be signs of bigger issues beyond just needing an oil change.
3. Dirty Oil
Clean oil should look amber or honey-colored. If you check your car’s oil and it looks dirty, murky, or black, this is a sign that it’s time for an oil change. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at lubricating and cooling your engine.
Warning: The Oil Light Comes On
The oil keeps all of the moving parts within your engine lubricated and running smoothly. When oil levels get low, it can cause friction between these parts, leading to expensive damage. If the oil light comes on, it is way past the point of an oil change and it’s a warning to let you know you are approaching engine damage. If this happens, you need to take your car to the shop right away.
Schedule an Oil Change in Austin, TX
If it’s been a while since your last oil change, or if you’re due for one based on the mileage on your car, don’t wait any longer.
At Juke Auto, we provide oil change services in Austin, TX to help keep your car running smoothly. We can also check for any other issues that may be causing your car problems and recommend the best course of action.
As Austin’s fully professional husband-and-wife-owned auto shop, we pride ourselves on providing honest workmanship, clean facilities, and excellent customer service. For us, this means maintaining a high standard of quality in both the products we use and the repairs we make. We only use top-of-the-line parts, fluids, and tools, and our technicians are ASE-certified.
We understand that your car is a vital part of your life, so we work hard to get you back on the road as soon as possible without all the pushy sales tactics. We offer convenient appointments, drop-off service, overnight key drop services, and a comfortable waiting room with free WiFi to make getting your car serviced as stress-free as possible.
Contact us today at (512) 385-5853 to schedule an appointment!