When You Should Get an Oil Change from a Car Wash Nearby

When you trust your local car wash nearby for your oil changes, you’re investing in your car’s longevity. Your car’s oil is one of the most important fluids within your vehicle. It helps to keep all the engine parts moving smoothly and prevents them from overheating. That’s why it’s important to get regular oil changes. But how often should you get an oil change, and what are the signs that you need one?

How Often Should You Get an Oil Change?

Most carmakers recommend getting an oil change every 5,000 miles or so. However, this varies depending on the type of engine oil, the age and make of your vehicle, and your driving habits. If you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or short distances, you may need to get your oil changed more often. You should also get your oil changed more frequently if you’re using your truck for towing.

On the other hand, if you mainly drive on highways, you can probably go a little longer between oil changes. Consult your car’s owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends, and if you’re ever unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get an oil change sooner rather than later.

Signs You Need an Oil Change

In addition to following the recommended interval for getting your oil changed, there are a few other signs that indicate it’s time for an oil change from a car wash nearby:

Your “Check Engine” Light Is On: This is perhaps the most obvious sign that something is wrong with your car. If your check engine light is on, it means that your car needs immediate attention. One of the reasons the check engine light may come on is that your car is due for an oil change.

Your Oil Looks Dirty: Another way to tell that it’s time for an oil change is by checking the appearance of your car’s oil. Fresh oil is a light brown color, but as it gets older, it turns black. If you notice that your oil has turned black, it means it needs to be changed.

You Hear Strange Noises: Do you hear banging, knocking, or ticking noises when you start up your car? These noises could be coming from a lack of lubrication in the engine parts—aka old or dirty oil. Getting an oil change will help to lubricate these parts and get rid of any strange noises.

As you can see, there are several different indicators that let you know when it’s time for an oil change. To keep your car running smoothly and avoid any potential damage down the line, it’s important to get regular oil changes according to either the manufacturer’s recommendation or based on these signs. If you ever have any questions or concerns about your car, don’t hesitate to bring it to a car wash nearby like Branford Car Wash. We would be more than happy to take a look and help keep your car running like new.

For more information on our oil changing services, visit the rest of our website where you can also see the additional services we provide to any of our customers. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 203-481-2770.