Smells that Indicate Your Car Needs an Oil Change

Oil changes are a frequent occurrence for drivers in the Peoria, Avondale and Surprise area. There are different signs that point to this simple service, the most obvious being the dashboard indicator light. Others aren't that obvious but can be right under your nose. That's why we're going to tell you the different smells that mean that your vehicle needs an oil change.

WHAT OIL DOES

Oil is used to help keep the moving parts under your hood lubricated. Without oil, these metal parts would constantly grind against each other. This would cause friction and cause these parts to wear down much quicker. Oil also helps to keep your engine from overheating. It's essential to the overall health of your car.

OILY SMELL

If you're just driving along and you notice a potent oil smell, it's a sign that you may need to schedule an oil change. If you don't change your oil in the immediate future, this oil smell will get stronger in your cabin. This smell will also become more potent outside your vehicle. If you don't change your oil during this time, it could lead to more serious problems under the hood that requires more than just an oil change.

BURNING OIL

If there's a noticeable thick burning oil smell coming from your car, it may mean that your oil is leaking. Oil can drip out onto the hot engine parts, creating this acrid smell. If your oil is leaking, it could also mean that your vehicle is overheating. The best thing to do is turn the car off and call for assistance from your authorized dealer.

WHEN TO HAVE YOUR OIL CHANGED


The old school of thought was that you needed to have your oil changed every 3,000 miles. Now, with cars becoming more advanced, and oil formulas changing, you don't need to change your oil as frequently. Depending on the kind of oil you have in your car, you may be able to get away with changing it every 7,500 miles. However, you don't want to stray too far beyond this mileage interval to avoid any unwanted damage to your vehicle.

Of course, if you're having problems with your motor oil, you may need to change it more frequently than 7,500 miles. If you notice any of the previously mentioned smells, you'll want to schedule an oil change right away in order to keep your car running efficiently.

WHERE TO GO FOR OIL CHANGES AND RELATED SERVICES

Drivers in the Peoria, Avondale and Surprise area can always count on our team at Coulter Nissan. Our certified technicians work hard to make sure that your vehicle is running as smoothly as the day you bought it. They do oil changes every day, so you don't have to worry. At Coulter Nissan, you and your car are in great hands.

Schedule your next oil change with us today at Coulter Nissan.