How Do I Know When It’s Time to Change the Engine Oil?
Lots of people have asked us that million-dollar question. So, we decided to cover a few of the telltale signs. Check out this list, check out your Kia, and then check out what we can do for you here:
- Dashboard Light: This is the simplest way to determine when it’s time for an oil change. If your dashboard’s oil change indicator is illuminated, it means that it’s time to give us a call.
- Oil Dipstick: Open the hood, find the dipstick, remove it, and check it the old-fashioned way!
- Oil Consistency: When you check the dipstick, don’t just look to see if the oil is filled up to the proper levels. You should also look to see if it’s black or gritty.
- Engine Volume: Keep your ears open while you’re driving. If your engine is making tons of extra noise, it could mean that your oil is no longer healthy. This is caused by all the excess friction that occurs when oil levels are drastically low. In that case, reach out to us and we’ll change it right away.
- Time: If it’s been too long, get an oil change now!
Check the Engine Oil from Home
If you want to know whether or not it’s time to change the engine oil, you can check it from the comfort of your own home. Give yourself a few minutes, grab some needed supplies, and get to work! All you need is a paper towel and some spare time.
Make sure your Kia has been turned off for at least a few hours. It’s usually best to check the oil in the morning after it has been parked overnight. Pop the hood open, find the dipstick, and wipe any oil residue off using the paper towel. Then, place the dipstick back in. Take it back out again, checking the oil color and the quality of the oil itself. If the oil color is amber, it’s healthy. If the oil has turned dark brown or black, it’s time for a service appointment to be scheduled!
Change Your Engine Oil to Get the Best Possible Fuel Economy
Plenty of drivers are aware that changing the oil has a positive impact on overall performance. What you may not know is that changing the oil also benefits you in another department: the fuel economy department.
As oil begins to age, it’ll break down. Oil is, unfortunately, not like a fine wine. It becomes less effective over time. When it loses that lubricating ability, it can have a negative impact on your engine. Without the proper oil viscosity, the engine parts have to work harder, and the oil can’t get to where it needs to go. Generally speaking, the engine is hotter, making it less efficient.
Once the oil breaks down, it starts leaving behind deposits, known as sludge. This engine sludge can prevent oil from flowing properly throughout the engine. Be sure to schedule an oil change to prevent engine overheating and ensure you’re driving the most fuel-efficient version of your Kia.
What Is Synthetic Oil?
“Does the engine need synthetic oil?” That’s a question we’ve heard from many drivers over the years. It’s important to keep in mind that your Kia only requires synthetic oil if your manufacturer specifically calls for it. While we do work on many Kia models here at our service center, we do service all makes and models, so it’s possible it may need synthetic oil.
Typically, synthetic oil can withstand higher temperatures. It’s best to follow all manufacturer directions when it comes to synthetic oil. As this oil does resist breaking down better that conventional oil, it’ll typically last longer. Most manufacturers request an oil change every 5,000 miles for regular oil, but your Kia may last up to 10,000 miles if it has synthetic oil.
Schedule a Service Appointment with Pat Peck Kia
If you’re looking for an “oil change near me,” let us know!
Give Pat Peck Kia a call. If calling isn’t best for you, don’t hesitate to stop by our showroom in person. We’re just a short drive down the road from D’lberville, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, and the surrounding Mississippi towns and cities.
However, if driving isn’t best for you either, there’s another option! You can set up an appointment by either chatting with us on our website or filling out a simple form today.
Open Today! Service: 7:30am-6pm | Call us at: (228) 679-5252
