5 signs you need to schedule an oil change ASAP

Are you keeping your car on an oil change schedule? You should be - after all, oil plays an essential role in keeping your car's engine cool and lubricated when it's working hard to get you from point A to point B. However, not everyone is on a car care schedule (and we get it; life gets in the way) and you may not know how to pinpoint whether or not you're due for an oil change. Check out this quick checklist from Toyota of Orlando's auto service center! 

Don't ignore these 5 signs that you're due for an oil change 

#1: Your oil isn't the color it should be. 
Is your oil looking darker than it should be? Normal, clean motor oil should be tan or caramel in color and free of debris. If it's dark brown or black in color or you can see flecks of dirt or debris, you need to schedule an oil change at Toyota of Orlando. Dirty oil can't keep your engine cool and lubricated and you're likely to have issues that can be costly to repair. 

#2: You see smoke coming out of your exhaust pipe. 
Do you see smoke coming out of your car's exhaust pipe? This is abnormal and you need to call our Orlando Toyota service center ASAP. It's a sign that you have a problem with your car's oil and you need a mechanic to check things over. 

#3: Your oil level is too low. 
When you check your oil, you'll notice two tic marks on the dipstick. Your oil level should fall in between those two tic marks. If it's below the bottom mark, then you're running low on oil and you need to make a service appointment for an oil change so your car's engine can stay cool under pressure. 

#4: You can smell oil inside of your car (not under the hood). 
You should never, ever be able to smell motor oil inside of your car's cabin. If you do, it means you have a leak and you need immediate attention from our Toyota service center. An oil leak left unchecked can be dangerous AND costly. 

#5: You hear knocking or rumbling from inside the engine. 
You know what your car should sound like when it's running normally, so any abnormal sounds should stand out. If you hear knocking or rumbling inside of your car's engine, it can mean that you're in dire need of oil, to the point where parts are overheating and breaking. If you hear these noises, call us immediately to schedule an oil change. 

Schedule this essential car care service at Toyota of Orlando today 

A final indicator that you're due for an oil change is that your oil light is on in the dash. If you see this illuminate, it's time to schedule service! Call us today - Toyota of Orlando's service center is open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall. You can call ahead to make an appointment at (407) 298-0001.