Keeping your Toyota running smoothly for years to come is simple thanks to the quality and care that goes into each and every vehicle they make. One of the ways you can help maintain it is to regularly change your oil. It may sometimes not be clear that it’s time for an oil change, so Marianna Toyota is here to help! Read on for our list of signs that indicate your vehicle is low on oil.
Whether you drive a car, truck, or van, modern vehicles should come equipped with an Engine Control Unit. This unit has a sensor that will let you know you need more oil by turning on an oil pressure warning light on your dash. Even if the light flicks on and off, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for more oil.
Another warning sign is hearing knocking or clunking noises while you’re driving. If you’re low on oil, parts in your engine aren’t lubricated properly so they run together. This friction can loosen the engine rods that secure the pistons. If the rods get too loose, they’ll fly around inside the engine, causing those knocking and clunking sounds.
Our third indicator to watch out for is a decrease in your fuel economy. Some vehicles do lose some of their fuel economies over time, but if there is a significant decrease it’s probably due to low oil. Engines work harder to run when they don’t have enough oil, which reduces the number of miles you’ll get per mile.
Next up, watch carefully for a burning oil smell. If you experience this at any point, it is vital that you pull over immediately. Oil could be leaking from one of the engine components and dripping onto a hot engine. Always give your car time to cool down before opening your hood if you’re worried about burning or overheating to prevent serious injury to yourself or even explosions.
Finally, has your car been stalling out? If so, you’re likely low on oil. A lot of vehicles do come with fail-safe features to help prevent serious damage when you stall out, but if it’s happening repeatedly there is a definite strain being placed on your engine and it can lead to permanent and expensive damage.
Marianna Toyota can help with all your oil change and repair needs! Give us a call at (850) 526-3511 to schedule your maintenance appointment today! We are conveniently located at 2961 Pennsylvania Avenue in Marianna, Florida.