How Does One Read Their Oil Dipstick?
Why Is a Motor Oil Change So Important?
Engine oil is a critical component of your car. Oil is the driving force of your vehicle. It lubricates components of the engine to keep them from grinding and keep it cooled. The engine oil aids the engine in numerous ways. It helps shield the engine by keeping it clean from debris, which defends the engine's operation. Oil lowers wear and friction, which can also improve the fuel economy of your car. Lastly, it lowers the heat within the engine and pushes it to other parts of the engine.
How to Check Oil Level Using a Dipstick?
Regularly checking the oil level can help keep the driver maintain proper oil levels and help safekeep oil health. To start testing, it is best to check the oil when the engine is cooled to avoid touching hot engine parts. Many dipsticks have guidelines to show if the oil levels are too low and should be topped off. Also when using the dipstick, you can inspect the oil texture. If the oil is smooth and a lighter color, it shouldn't be changed. But, if the oil appears sludgy and dark, then it should be replaced.
Detecting an Oil Leak
If your dipstick constantly shows low engine oil levels then you may have a leak. There are multiple ways to test for oil leakage, which is essential because a leak could bring damage to your vehicle's engine. If there are dark puddles under your car, it is possibly a result of its oil pan slowly leaking oil. The scent of burning oil or smoke from the engine may also be an essential sign of an engine oil leak. Also, the engine overheating could possibly be a product of an oil leak.
How Many Months Until Oil Change?
Learning when to change your vehicle's engine oil is also critical to negate damage to the engine in your vehicle. While some may suggest a short engine 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 happens first. However, if you're unsure about when you should have an oil change you should contact our service department for more accurate info about your vehicle.
Schedule Your Next Oil Change at Finnegan Chevy Buick GMC
Are you looking for the right place for your next Sugar Land Chevrolet Buick GMC oil change? We invite you to schedule an appointment at Finnegan Chevy Buick GMC. Call now or schedule online. Our factory-trained Chevrolet Buick GMC technicians are standing by and ready to serve you. We service all brands and vehicles.
Had a great experience with the service...
Had a great experience with the service department. Tim did a great job of keeping me updated on the progress of my car in real time.
Juanita B.
Rosenberg
I always feel like my service visits are...
I always feel like my service visits are first class! Clayton is always in communication with me and honest about service needs for my vehicle.
Mikalyn C.
NEEDVILLE
Clayton was absolutely the best! Always...
Clayton was absolutely the best! Always courteous, helpful and professional.
Marilyn P.
ROSENBERG
Allways a great experience at Finegan...
Allways a great experience at Finegan Auto, from sales to service!
Michael C.
RICHMOND
Really appreciate all the hoops everyone...
Really appreciate all the hoops everyone jumped through for us!
Mandi L.
FULSHEAR
Waited for 25 minutes as truck sat in...
Waited for 25 minutes as truck sat in drlveway at service desk area for no apparent reason
Randy B.
EAGLE LAKE
Salesperson Mr. Sudais "Sam" Effendi was...
Salesperson Mr. Sudais "Sam" Effendi was professional with his approach and methods of selling the new Chevrolet to me. I believe that he actually wen...
Clifton M.
RICHMOND
I was seen right away when I drove up. I...
I was seen right away when I drove up. I was kept up to how long it would take to service and wash my truck. The person that I dealt with made sure th...
Debra J.
ROSENBERG
