We have all heard the saying, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it". That advice does not apply, however, if you want to have reliable transportation. Regularly changing the oil in your car is vital to the longevity of the car's engine. You will void your car's warranty if you do not get regular oil changes. The oil light on your dashboard is a danger signal, not a reminder to have an oil change. A crusty oil residue deposit on your dipstick is an indicator of a potentially serious problem lurking in your engine.
Clean oil is smooth and transparent. If your oil is the color of espresso, it's time for a change. According to Machinerylubrication.com, bubbles or crust on a car's oil dipstick could indicate antifreeze leaking into your engine. "A simple way to detect water in used motor oil is to put a drop of oil from the dipstick on a hot exhaust manifold. If it crackles (sounds like bacon frying) this is an indication of water contamination. Beware that there is some risk that the drop of oil may catch fire."
You know it's time to change your oil when it is thick as molasses and smells like rotten cheese. The odor indicates that your oil is old. If your oil has a diesel smell, be concerned. You may have a leakage.
Oil lubricates and protects your engine's metal parts. But over time heat breaks down the oil, resulting in metal abrasion. Rub the oil between your fingers. If it feels gritty, the oil contains dirt and sediment deposits. An oil change is in order.
