If you’re driving a Subaru, chances are you love it for its rugged dependability and all-wheel-drive prowess. To keep your Subaru running smoothly, one of the most crucial maintenance tasks is the regular oil change. Understanding when to change your oil and recognizing the signs that it’s due for a trip to the Subaru dealer can help you maintain your car’s performance.
Understanding Oil Change Intervals
The frequency with which you change your oil depends on several factors, including your Subaru model, the type of oil it uses, and your driving habits. The best place to start is with your Subaru’s owner’s manual. Most newer models can typically go between 5,000 and 7,500 miles between changes. However, if you’re driving an older model, you might need to change it more frequently.
If you often drive in harsh conditions, like frequent off-roading, driving in extreme temperatures, or regularly towing heavy loads, your oil might need changing sooner. Severe driving conditions can put more strain on your engine and its oil.
Signs You Should Change Your Oil at the Subaru Dealer
The Engine Runs Louder Than Usual
As oil degrades, it can become less effective as a lubricant. If your engine starts to sound louder or runs rougher, this could be a sign that your oil is losing its efficiency.
Oil or Check Engine Light Comes On
Many Subarus have an oil indicator light. If this light illuminates, it’s time for a check-up. Additionally, if your check engine light comes on, it’s a good idea to check your oil levels and quality.
Dirty or Dark Oil
Clean engine oil is amber-colored and clear enough for light to shine through. If it turns dark or looks dirty and gritty when you check it with the dipstick, that’s a sure sign that it needs to be changed.
Consequences of Not Changing Your Oil
Engine Damage
Oil lubricates the engine, reducing friction between moving parts. Without regular oil service, this friction can cause significant wear and tear, potentially even leading to engine failure.
Overheating
As well as acting as a lubricant, oil also helps cool your engine. If you don’t have enough fresh oil in your car, it can lead to overheating, which can seriously damage the components of your engine.
Sludge Buildup
Leave your oil in long enough, and it can thicken into sludge. Sludge can keep fresh oil from reaching critical parts of the engine, meaning even after you change it, the damage may linger.
Changing your Subaru’s oil regularly is one of the most important tasks you can do to extend its life and maintain its performance. By sticking to a routine and taking it in for service at the first sign of trouble, you may avoid damage and expensive repairs down the line. Call Stevens Creek Subaru and schedule your service today. We’re your Bay Area Subaru dealership and we’re here to service your car quickly and efficiently.
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