Oil is perhaps the most vital fluid in your engine. It protects all the other components as they move together in a hot and sometimes dirty environment. If you visit your local Chrysler dealership for an oil change regularly, and you know the symptoms of problems in case there’s an issue between changes, you’ll keep your Chrysler running right for years to come.
5 Signs You Need an Oil Change From Your Chrysler Dealership
Oil Looks Thick and Dirty
Inspect your oil at least once a month, just by using the dipstick. Healthy oil should be golden or amber in hue, and it should be fairly thin. Over time, as your oil collects all the contaminants that are running through your engine, this will start to change. It will get darker and look thicker. Once you see this, it’s time for fresh oil.
Burning Smell
You never want to smell anything burning in your car, so if you’re smelling what you think is oil, let the car cool off and then check oil levels with the dipstick. If it’s getting low, then you might have a leak that isn’t puddling on your driveway (which is often where you expect to see a leak) but rather dripping out onto the hot engine and getting burned away. Never mess with an oil leak: if the levels get too low, your car could overheat.
Knocking Sounds
If you hear knocking or ticking noises from the engine, this is often a sign that the engine is overheating. Pull over at once, and don’t drive until the problem has been resolved unless you have independent confirmation from a reliable thermostat that things aren’t too hot. Driving with an overheating engine is a fast way to completely ruin it. Overheating can be caused by the cooling system as well as by issues with oil, but either way, you don’t want to mess with this.
Oil Light Comes On
The service light will tell you when it’s time to change the oil. If this pops on, even if it seems early, don’t delay. Bear in mind that the check engine light may also come on when something is up with the oil.
Unusual Vibrations
If you sense that your car seems to be vibrating more than it should, and especially when you’re sitting at a light, there could be several reasons for this, and issues with the oil is one of them. If you don’t have enough lubrication, your engine will generate too much friction, and this can cause vibrations.
If it’s time for your vehicle to get some fresh oil, or if you notice any of these issues, contact us at Miller Motor Sales CDJR in Burlington, WI for help.
