Search
-
or select -
A critical component of your car is engine oil. If it’s keeping the lubricating sections of the engine or keeping it cool, the engine oil is the lifeline for your car. The engine oil helps the engine in plenty of ways. It helps protect the engine by keeping it clean from dirt, which protects the operation of the engine. Oil reduces friction and wear, which can also improve the performance of the fuel. Lastly, it lowers the heat inside the engine and redistributes it to other areas of the engine.
Consistently checking the oil level can help the driver ensure oil health and upkeep proper oil levels. To avoid touching the hot engine parts, it is a best practice to test the oil when the engine is cooled. When checking the oil level, many dipsticks have guidelines to show if the oil level is too low and needs to be topped off. Also when using the dipstick, you can look at the oil texture. If the oil is smooth and a lighter color, it’s okay. However, if the oil looks sludgy and dark, then it should be changed.
If your dipstick regularly shows low oil levels then it’s possible that you may have a leak. There are a number of methods to test for an oil leak, which is integral because a leak could bring damage to the car’s engine. If there are dark puddles under your car, it is possibly a result of the oil pan slowly leaking oil. Smoke from the engine or the smell of burning oil may also be an important indicator of an engine oil leak. Also, the engine overheating could possibly be a product of an oil leak.
Learning when to change your car’s engine oil is also critical to prevent damage to the engine in your car. While some may recommend a short oil change interval from 3,000-5,000 miles, it is recommended to have your oil changed every six months or 5,000-7,000 miles, whichever one comes first. However, if you’re unsure about when to change your oil you should reach out to our service department for more accurate information about your vehicle.
Schedule your next Albuquerque area oil change at Lexus of Albuquerque. Our factory-trained technicians are standing by to serve you. We service all types and brands of vehicles. Call now or schedule your next oil change appointment online. We look forward to serving you.