Do you have dirty engine oil?

 If you get routine oil changes, then congrats - you're taking steps toward keeping your car in good shape for a long, long time. You're also safeguarding performance. However, if you're known to skip routine maintenance appointments, there's a chance your engine oil could be dirty. Toyota of N Charlotte is here with tips on how to check your engine oil AND how to spot that it's dirty and you need to have it changed. 

First, let's talk about how to check engine oil. It's pretty simple - turn your car off and let it cool down for a minute or two. Then pop the hood and locate the oil dipstick. Pull it out, and take a look at the oil on the end of it. There are a few things you should note: 

• The oil level: The oil should fall in between the two tic marks on the end of the dipstick. If it's below the bottom tic mark, your oil level is too low and you need an oil change ASAP. 
• The oil color: What color is your car oil? Regular oil is caramel in color and indicates that the oil is in the right condition to do its job. 

Signs your engine oil is dirty 

How does your engine oil get dirty in the first place? Well, it circulates through the engine to keep things cool and to keep moving parts lubricated. As it circulates, it picks up dirt, debris, and grime and doesn't really have any way to get rid of it, so it just stays dirty. Here are some surefire signs you have dirty engine oil and need to have it changed at our Charlotte auto service center: 

• It just LOOKS dirty. If your oil is dark brown or black instead of caramel-colored, or you can see flecks of dirt and debris in it, it's definitely dirty. 
• Your exhaust is smoky, especially if it's dark in color. 
• You smell oil within the cabin of your Charlotte Toyota. 
• You hear knocking sounds coming from your engine, or your engine is just a lot louder than usual in general. 

You never want to leave dirty engine oil in your car. It can do major damage and cost you a ton of money in repairs - and worst-case scenario, it could do irreparable damage to your car, leaving it permanently undrivable unless you get a new engine. 

Schedule your oil change today at Toyota of N Charlotte 

If you think your car has dirty engine oil, let Toyota of N Charlotte help! Our auto service center is open seven days a week at 13429 Statesville Road, just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville. You can call us at (704) 659-2025 today to schedule an appointment, or visit our website and schedule an oil change online!