Maintaining your Jeep’s performance hinges on regular oil changes. Sometimes it can be difficult to be sure when it’s time to visit the Jeep dealer for this essential service.
When Should You Change the Oil?
Typically, the oil in your car should last from 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, this might not be enough if you drive extensively off-road, tow heavy loads frequently, or regularly sit in traffic.
What Does an Oil Change Do?
Fresh oil lubricates your engine’s moving parts, reducing the friction between them. This helps prevent them from wearing down too soon. Oil also cleans your engine, picking up dirt and debris and moving it to your filter. Engine oil helps draw heat away from your engine so it doesn’t overheat, and provides a protective layer against rust and corrosion.
Signs It’s Time to Visit the Jeep Dealer for Fresh Oil
Your Oil or Check Engine Light is On
Many modern Jeeps automatically monitor your car’s oil for you. If the dashboard oil light comes on, it’s time to make a change. If your check engine light flips on, instead, there’s still a good chance oil is what’s needed. However, the check engine light is linked to many different engine issues, so a professional diagnostic test is recommended.
Your Oil Is Thick, Dark, and Gritty
Oil is supposed to be clear and amber-colored. Over time, dirt from the engine accumulates in it, turning your oil dark, thick, and gritty. Pop the hood of your Jeep and pull out your dipstick. If your oil doesn’t look clean and fresh anymore, it’s probably time to change it.
You Hear Increased Engine Noise
If you’re noticing more noise from your engine than you should, you probably need fresh oil. Excess engine noise is a sign of an unhappy engine. If you hear ticking or knocking, a lack of oil may even be causing damage every time you drive.
Your Oil Is Too Low
You should be checking the oil levels in your car at least once a month. Even in healthy cars, oil levels drop over time. Once your oil hits that ‘low’ mark on the dipstick, it’s probably time for a change. On the other hand, if you recently added oil and the level drops too quickly, there may be an oil leak.
Your Exhaust Is Smoking
On cold mornings, you may notice translucent vapor coming from your exhaust, and that’s normal. Smoke is another story. Smoke in your exhaust is a sign that something is burning somewhere in your car, and one of the most likely culprits is your oil.
Changing the oil in your Jeep regularly ensures its engine will continue to run smoothly. Call Brown Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM to schedule your next oil service.
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