It can be tricky to tell when your car needs fresh oil, but learning how to know if your Chevy needs an oil change can save you from bigger problems later. Oil keeps the engine parts moving smoothly. Without it, things can wear out fast. If you catch the signs early, you’ll help your Chevy stay on the road longer and run better every day.
Watch for the Oil Light on Your Dashboard
One of the easiest signs starts right in front of you. Your Chevy may have an oil light or a message that pops up saying it’s time to change the oil. This is your car’s way of speaking up. If that light comes on, don’t ignore it. It means the oil might be too old or too low to do its job well anymore.
Check the Color and Feel of the Oil
Oil should look light brown or amber when it’s clean. But after a while, it can turn dark and thick. You can look at the oil on the dipstick under the hood. If it looks dirty or feels gritty when you rub it between your fingers, it’s time for new oil. Clean oil helps your engine stay healthy, so checking it every now and then is a smart habit.
Listen for New Noises from the Engine
Your engine should sound smooth when running. But if you start to hear ticking, knocking, or rattling, it may be asking for help. These sounds could mean the oil isn’t doing its job. Old oil doesn’t protect moving parts the way it should. That means they rub together too much, and that’s what causes those sounds. Fresh oil helps things stay quiet and smooth.
Watch the Exhaust and Smell for Oil
If you see blue or gray smoke coming from the exhaust pipe, that could be a sign oil is burning. Or maybe you smell oil while driving. These are warnings that something may be wrong under the hood. Your car could be running low on oil, or the oil might be leaking into places it shouldn’t go. In both cases, getting your car checked quickly is a smart move.
Notice Changes in Fuel Use
Sometimes your Chevy may start using more gas than usual. This can happen when the oil gets old and thick. Your engine has to work harder, and that means it burns more fuel. If you’ve noticed fewer miles from each tank, and everything else seems fine, an oil change might be the fix you need.
Think About the Miles You’ve Driven
Even if nothing feels wrong, your Chevy still needs new oil after so many miles. Some drivers forget the last time they had it done. That’s okay. Just check your mileage and think back. If it’s been a while, or if you’ve taken long road trips lately, it’s a good time to get fresh oil. It’s better to change it too soon than too late.
Let Us Help You Take Care of It
We understand it’s not always easy to know what your car needs. That’s why we’re here to help. At Sarchione Chevy of Randolph, our service department in Randolph, OH is ready to take care of your oil change with care and speed. Whether you’re hearing strange sounds, smelling something off, or just wondering if it’s time, you can count on us. We’ll check everything for you and make sure your Chevy stays strong.
Ready to schedule your oil change? Visit us today or call our team in Randolph, OH to book your service. Keeping your Chevy healthy is as simple as trusting the people who know it best—we’re here when you need us.