How Long Has It Been Since Your Subaru’s Last Oil Change?

Are you worried that it’s been too long since your last oil change? As motor oil starts to degrade, excess friction and heat can build up inside the engine, which might lead to all kinds of expensive trouble. If you ever notice the following issues, head to your local Subaru dealer right away to have your motor oil refreshed. 

How Long Has It Been Since Your Subaru’s Last Oil Change?

Knocking or Ticking Sounds

If motor oil starts to diminish or thicken as it fills with contaminants, it can no longer lubricate properly. This causes the moving internal engine parts to start knocking and rubbing against each other more noisily. When cold or thickened oil takes excessive time to circulate around an engine, it can also cause odd ticking sounds.

Poor Engine Performance

As an engine requires high-quality oil to function, any reduction in the volume or quality of oil may cause a loss in engine efficiency. So if your engine seems to have less powerful acceleration than usual, you might have to top up or change your motor oil. 

Dropping Gas Mileage 

An insufficiently lubricated engine will also begin to guzzle gas less efficiently. This means you’ll be stopping at gas stations more frequently. 

Overheating Engine

Alongside the cooling system, motor oil plays a role in controlling the temperature inside the engine. If the oil stops lubricating properly and friction rises, the engine may start to overheat. If this happens, you’ll see the temperature gauge on your dashboard rapidly rising into the red.

Smells of Burning Oil

As heat rises inside an engine, the oil can start to burn. Leaking motor oil might also burn as it drips onto super-heated engine components. If this happens, you’re likely to catch a whiff of burning motor oil from inside the car’s cabin.

Smoke in the Exhaust Fumes

The problems caused by old, low, or degraded motor oil can also cause smoke to pour from the tailpipe. Thickening exhaust fumes should never be ignored as it usually indicates a potentially serious engine problem. 

Low or Dirty-Looking Oil

All drivers should regularly check the level and condition of their motor oil. If your oil ever appears to be low or dirtied by contaminants, consider topping it up or having it refreshed at once. 

How Often To Visit Your Subaru Dealer for Oil Servicing

Motor oil should typically be changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or about once every six months. However, this interval might vary depending on your particular vehicle and regular driving conditions. Always check your owner’s manual for the specific guidance the manufacturer offers. You can also ask for advice at your local dealership.

Have your oil refreshed today by courteous, experienced technicians at Royal Moore Subaru. We’re a full-service dealership offering great vehicles and a great customer experience for everyone who steps foot through our doors.

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