If you have a Chevrolet, you know it can be a real workhorse. There is no doubt this is an excellent vehicle with many great features and capabilities. However, if you do not take care of your car, it can also become very expensive to maintain.
One of the most important things you can do for your Chevy is to get an oil change regularly (at least every 3,000 miles or so—although with most modern vehicles, you can change the oil between 7,500 and 10,000 miles.) This will ensure all the parts inside continue performing properly and give you peace of mind about your investment.
Here are some signs it’s time to bring your Chevrolet to our Precision Auto Care auto repair shop for an oil change:
- Your change oil or check engine light is on
You can find this symbol on the dashboard of most models. If you’ve been driving with low oil, it will be illuminated and your display will show a message telling you to stop immediately and get your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. This could damage more than just the engine — it could cause major problems with other parts, too.
- Your engine is making strange sounds
If you notice a clunking sound coming from under the hood when you start the car or accelerate quickly, it could be time for an oil change. If you hear a hissing noise when you turn off the engine, this may also indicate a problem with lubrication which needs to be addressed.
- Exhaust smoke
If you notice your Chevrolet is emitting black or gray smoke, this is a sign that the engine needs an oil change. Exhaust smoke is usually caused by unburned fuel in the combustion chamber and shows there isn’t enough lubrication to keep the engine running smoothly. This can lead to damage and costly repairs down the road.
- Your oil is dirty or dark in color
The color of your oil indicates its condition — if it looks dark brown or black instead of clear golden brown, then it may be time for an oil change. Your engine generates heat while running and deposits sludge into the oil over time; this sludge can clog up critical parts of the engine and cause serious damage if left untreated.
- Oil smell inside the car
You might notice a faint smell of old oil when you start up your car on a cold morning or after it has been sitting for a while. This may be caused by dirty or worn out seals and gaskets, which could allow oil to leak into other parts of your engine and contaminate them with sludge.
Conclusion
If you own a Chevrolet, you know it’s important to keep your vehicle in good condition. It’s not just about the quality of your ride; it’s also about safety. If your car is not well maintained, then it could fail to perform when you need it most. If you notice any of these signs your Chevrolet needs an oil change, then it’s time for you to schedule an appointment with our team.