5 Signs You Need an Oil Change
Drivers know their vehicles need regular oil changes to continue running in top condition, but do you know when your vehicle needs those oil changes? While it’s best to follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle to stay on top of oil changes, the team at Fremont Motor Companies is here to outline five signs you need an oil change.
We’re here to serve drivers from Scottsbluff, Nebraska; and Cody, Casper, Lander, Powell, Riverton, Rock Springs, and Sheridan, Wyoming. So, follow this guide and schedule your vehicle’s oil change appointment as soon as possible!
Dashboard Lights Are On
One surefire way to determine your vehicle needs an oil change is the dashboard lights. The two to look out for on your dashboard are the check engine light and the oil change light.
The oil change light is self-explanatory – it will illuminate when it’s time for an oil change. However, the check engine light can come on for a few different reasons. If you see either of these lights on your dashboard, schedule an appointment with your service center as soon as possible
Burning Smell While Driving
One of the engine oil’s main jobs is to keep the engine cool, so a burning smell could mean one of two things. It might indicate the oil is no longer able to do its job and keep the engine cool. Whether because the oil is too thick or too low, it’s no longer cooling the engine as you drive.
The burning smell could also indicate an oil leak. The oil will leak out onto the engine and burn as the engine heats up, creating that odor.
Strange Sounds From Engine
The main job of oil is to keep all moving parts inside the engine well lubricated and clear of debris. Over time, the oil will experience particle buildup, making it less smooth and less able to do its job.
If you notice a knocking or grinding sound while driving, it could mean the oil is no longer able to lubricate the engine, causing parts to rub against each other. This can lead to serious damage for the engine if left unchecked, so be sure to get the oil changed as soon as possible.
Low Oil Level
Whether due to a leak or simply burning away over time, the oil level will start decrease the longer your vehicle goes without an oil change. A dashboard light might appear to let you know the oil level is low, but you can also check by popping the hood to your engine.
Using a dipstick, you can check the oil level and consistency on your own with ease. If anything looks amiss, schedule a service appointment!
Oil Looks Different
When you check the oil level, you can also check the condition of the oil. Take a look at the dipstick and evaluate the color and consistency of the engine oil. Oil that looks extremely dark, gritty, and thick should be changed as soon as possible.
If it looks more translucent or fluid, then you’re good to go!
Is It Time for an Oil Change?
If you notice any combination of the above signs, it’s time to visit the Fremont Motor Companies service center and get an oil change! We’ll provide convenient service to make sure you’re ready to hit the road in confidence. And with tools like Fremont Care and Fremont Fast Track, you and your car will be driving around Scottsbluff, NE; and Cody, Casper, Lander, Powell, Riverton, Rock Springs, and Sheridan, WY, for many years and miles!
| Monday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Thursday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM - 2:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Service Department hours will vary by location. Please call to confirm. | |
| Monday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 5:30PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Saturday | 8:30AM - 2:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Parts Department hours will vary by location. Please call to confirm. | |