You’re driving along when suddenly, your check engine oil dashboard light illuminates. Should you pull over or can you continue driving?
Change Oil Vs. Check Engine Oil Dashboard Indicator Lights
Your engine oil lubricates moving parts to reduce friction while absorbing heat. For optimal efficiency of your motor oil, you need to routinely change it. Typically, old oil becomes thick and sludgy, losing its ability to lubricate.
To help you remember, many automakers install a dashboard reminder light based on mileage and driving conditions. When you see this light, you should bring your car in for an oil change as soon as possible. Once you’ve changed your oil, you need to reset this indicator.
Another dashboard indicator associated with motor oil is the check engine oil light. This light is more serious and requires immediate attention. Usually, one of the following problems will cause this warning light to illuminate:
- Low Oil Level
Seals and gaskets can deteriorate when exposed to heat and pressure allowing oil to leak.
- Insufficient Pressure
Your oil filter traps dirt and particles as engine oil passes through. If you fail to change it regularly, it will become clogged, blocking oil flow and reducing pressure.
- Faulty Oil Sensor
A sensor measures your oil level and sends data to your car’s computer. Sometimes it can fail due to corrosion, electrical problems, or dirty oil.
- Failing Oil Pump
Inadequate oil levels can put undue stress on your pump. Additionally, your oil pump can fail prematurely when exposed to dirty oil. Even if you regularly maintain your vehicle, your oil pump will eventually malfunction due to wear and tear.
What To Do If The Dashboard Oil Light Illuminates
When your check engine oil dashboard light illuminates, safely pull over to the side of the road. Most cars require a cold engine for an accurate oil reading. Check your owner’s manual for your car manufacturer’s recommendation.
If you need a cold engine reading, wait 10-15 minutes before checking your oil. This allows the oil to drain back into your oil pan for an accurate reading. Plus, you avoid burns by allowing your engine to cool.
Once your engine has cooled, pop your hood and locate your oil dipstick. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it off on a paper towel or rag. Then, insert it back into its tube, pushing it all the way in. Take the dipstick out once again, this time checking the indicator on the end.
If the oil level is good, you could have a problem with the pump. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t drive your car because doing so may result in serious engine damage.
Avoid Some Engine Issues With Regular Oil Changes
Over time, motor oil will interact with the oxygen in the air causing chemical changes. This alteration affects the structure of oil causing it to thicken and lose fluidity turning it into sludge. Even if you drive your car infrequently, your engine oil can still oxidize with exposure to air.
Furthermore, high engine temperatures increase the rate of oxidation, speeding up the degradation of oil. Additionally, foreign compounds in the oil like dirt and metal shavings can also increase this chemical reaction.
Thick, sludgy motor oil can’t lubricate engine parts properly causing additional wear and tear. Friction will increase generating more heat. Moreover, old oil won’t absorb heat from the engine as efficiently causing the engine to run even hotter.
This is why experts recommend you change your oil regularly. With clean oil, your engine will run more efficiently giving you the most effective gas mileage. Plus, with proper lubrication, your parts will last longer.
FAQs About Havoline Xpress Lube Of Kernersville
Auto parts stores stock their shelves with different types, weights, and brands of oil. It can be confusing trying to choose the correct product. Instead, why not trust the experts at Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville? Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about oil changes and our services.
Which Is The Best Oil To Use?
We use Havoline® brand products because of their ability to reduce sludge to keep engines running cleaner longer. Additionally, its additives protect the engine under all driving conditions.
When choosing oil types, you have the option of picking conventional, synthetic, or blend. Conventional oil is the least expensive providing adequate performance. Whereas, manufacturers chemically alter synthetic to offer the highest levels of lubrication and engine protection. It’s also more expensive. Blend is a combination of both types offering better protection than conventional with a cheaper price point than synthetic.
What Are Your Hours And Where Is Your Location?
Our auto repair shop is open Monday through Friday 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. On Saturday, we’re open from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. You’ll find us right off Salem Parkway in Kernersville at 725 Highway 66.
Where’s The Best Place To Get My Oil Changed?
For over 25 years, we’ve been providing Kernersville and the surrounding communities with outstanding car servicing. Many of our customers have been with us for many years. Our fast, friendly service and competitive pricing make us a local favorite.
In addition to oil changes, we perform a variety of services:
- Wheel alignments
- Electrical diagnostics
- Brakes
- Tires
- Transmissions
- Mufflers
- State safety and emissions inspections
- Steering and suspensions
- Air conditioning repair
- Electrical diagnostics
- And more!
Why not make an appointment right now for an oil change at Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville? Call us at 336-993-7697 or use our online form.
