7 Signs Your Engine Oil Needs Changing

Engine oil is a crucial component that helps keep a car's engine running smoothly. It plays a vital role in ensuring that the car's internal ecosystem functions properly. Neglecting engine oil can lead to serious issues, so it's important to be aware of the signs that indicate it's time for a change.

1. Black and Gritty Texture

Remember the golden, translucent liquid that was once poured into your engine? If it now resembles a dark, gritty sludge, it’s a clear SOS signal. Over time, oil collects debris and breaks down, losing its efficiency. When it reaches this state, it’s more of a contaminant than a lubricant. So, check your oil: if it’s dark and dirty, it’s time for a change.

2. Engine Noise and Knocking

Your engine should purr, not grumble. Increased engine noise or a knocking sound is a sign that the oil is not lubricating the parts effectively. Old, thin oil allows engine components to rub against each other, a conversation no car enthusiast wants to overhear. If your car's engine starts to sound like a coffee grinder, it’s time to take notice.

3. Exhaust Smoke

A little vapor from your car’s exhaust on a cold day is normal, but smoke is a cause for concern. If your exhaust starts looking like a chimney, it might indicate that your engine oil is too old and is burning inside the engine. This smoky signal is your cue to check and probably change that oil.

4. The Illuminated Oil Change Light

Modern cars are equipped with sensors that are smart enough to warn you. If your oil change light illuminates, don’t ignore it. This light is calibrated to light up based on the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals or when there’s a drop in oil pressure. It's like a gentle tap on the shoulder, reminding you to check your oil.

5. Low Oil Level

The good old dipstick – a simple yet effective tool. Regularly checking your oil level with the dipstick is crucial. If you find that your oil level is consistently low, it’s a sign that your oil either needs a top-up or a complete change. Remember, low oil levels can lead to increased engine wear and tear.

6. Tailpipe Emission Changes

Pay close attention to what comes out of your car’s tailpipe. Apart from smoke, a significant increase in exhaust emissions or a noticeable oil smell in the exhaust smoke is a red flag. This could indicate oil leaking into the combustion chamber. Such leaks not only reduce the effectiveness of your oil but also harm your engine and the environment.

7. Changes in Oil Viscosity

Maintaining the right viscosity, or the resistance to flow, of oil is crucial for protecting an engine. With time, oil can become too thick or too thin, losing its optimal viscosity. If oil is too thick, it won't flow smoothly, and if it's too thin, it won't provide sufficient lubrication. If you notice changes in your engine's performance, such as difficulty starting in cold weather or a decrease in fuel efficiency, it could be a sign of viscosity breakdown.

Have you spotted any of the signs? Call us at Kwik Kar Auto Repair, and we will take care of the change and any other needed procedures!

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What’s Causing That Grinding Noise When I Brake?

August 29, 2025

Brakes are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle, and any unusual noise when braking should be taken seriously. A grinding sound is especially concerning because it often points to worn parts that could compromise your stopping ability. Ignoring it can lead to more expensive repairs and reduced safety on the road. Knowing what causes brake grinding and acting quickly can help you avoid bigger problems. Worn Brake Pads The most common reason for grinding brakes is worn brake pads. Brake pads have a friction material that wears down with use. Once this material is gone, the metal backing plate makes contact with the brake rotor every time you press the pedal. This metal-on-metal contact creates a loud grinding sound and can quickly damage the rotors. Replacing pads before they wear down completely not only prevents grinding but also protects the rotors from costly damage. Damaged or Worn Rotors If you’ve been driving with worn pads for too long, your rotors may have deep grooves or scoring. This damage can also create a grinding sound, even after new pads are installed. Warped rotors from excessive heat can cause vibrations along with noise, making braking less smooth and less effective. In some cases, rotors can be resurfaced, but often they need to be replaced to restore safe, quiet braking. Debris Caught in the Brakes Small stones, rust flakes, or other debris can get lodged between the rotor and the brake pad. This creates a constant grinding or scraping noise when you brake or even when driving without braking. While this is less common, it’s still important to address it immediately since the debris can score the rotor’s surface and reduce braking performance. Caliper or Hardware Problems Brake calipers hold the pads in place and press them against the rotors when you brake. If a caliper is sticking or if the hardware is damaged, it can cause uneven pad wear, overheating, and grinding noises. A sticking caliper can also make the vehicle pull to one side while braking and can quickly overheat the brakes. Lack of Lubrication in Brake Components The moving parts of the braking system, such as caliper slides and contact points, need to be properly lubricated to operate quietly. Without lubrication, these parts can seize or wear unevenly, leading to noise and reduced braking efficiency. Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Grinding Brakes Driving with grinding brakes can cause serious damage to your braking system. Metal-on-metal contact wears down components quickly, increasing repair costs and making your car unsafe to drive. In extreme cases, you may lose braking ability altogether. Even if the grinding turns out to be caused by something minor, it’s better to have it checked early than to risk major brake failure. Diagnosing the Problem A professional brake inspection will include checking the thickness of the pads, the condition of the rotors, and the operation of the calipers. The technician will also look for debris, damage, and signs of overheating. From there, they can recommend the right repair—whether that’s replacing pads and rotors, cleaning out debris, or servicing calipers and hardware . Preventing Brake Grinding Routine brake maintenance is the best way to prevent grinding. Have your brakes inspected regularly, especially if you drive in heavy traffic, tow, or travel in hilly areas where brakes work harder. Replacing pads before they wear down completely keeps the rest of the braking system in better shape. Also, pay attention to early warning signs like squealing or squeaking when braking. These sounds often mean the pads are getting thin and need replacement soon. Brake Service at Kwik Kar Auto Repair – Parker Road – Plano, TX If you hear grinding when you brake, don’t wait to have it checked. At Kwik Kar Auto Repair – Parker Road in Plano, TX, our experienced technicians can diagnose the cause, replace worn parts, and restore your vehicle’s stopping power. Schedule your brake inspection today and drive with confidence knowing your brakes are safe and reliable.