Maintaining your Kia involves numerous tasks, but none is more crucial than regular oil changes. Neglecting the oil in your vehicle can lead to a host of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency, engine overheating, and even catastrophic engine failure. Here are a few signs to watch for that indicate when your car is due for an oil change at your Kia dealer.
Watch Your Oil Life Monitoring System
Most modern Kias come equipped with an oil life monitoring system, a handy tool that calculates the oil’s condition based on factors like engine temperatures, speed, and trip duration. When it’s time for an oil change, your dashboard will alert you with a maintenance light or message. However, if your vehicle lacks this feature, or you prefer a more hands-on approach, here are some ways to tell that it’s time.
Check Your Mileage
Your first step should be to consult your Kia’s owner’s manual. It contains specific recommendations for oil service intervals, tailored to your vehicle model. Most newer models should go about 5,000 to 7,500 miles between changes under normal driving conditions. Check the corner of your windshield for a sticker with your car’s mileage the last time your oil was changed. If you’ve exceeded the mileage recommendation since then, it’s time to change your oil.
Perform a Manual Inspection
Oil needs to be changed when it has broken down too much to do its job anymore. Fortunately, this is something you can check yourself. Use the dipstick to ensure the oil reaches the correct level and take a look at its color. Fresh oil should be amber and transparent.
Oil or Check Engine Light Is On – You Are Overdue for an Oil Change
The most obvious sign is when your Kia’s dashboard indicates it. If the check engine light comes on, it could mean your oil is contaminated or not properly lubricating the engine.
Noisy Engine – Get Your Oil Changed Now
Oil reduces friction between parts of your engine. Without it, you might hear knocking, rumbling, or grinding sounds from the engine compartment. Those sounds mean parts are wearing down due to a lack of lubrication.
Smoke From the Exhaust – Have Your Oil Checked Soon
It’s normal to see some vapor from your exhaust, especially in the cold, but smoke is another story. Smoke can point to oil burning off in your engine.
Engine Overheating – Could Indicate Other Issues
Oil helps to cool the engine by reducing friction. If your engine has started overheating, it might be due to old or low oil levels. In addition, an overheating engine could point to a wealth of other problems that should not be ignored. Get your car to an authorized Kia Dealer for service quickly.
By staying vigilant and following the recommended maintenance schedule, you can avoid the pitfalls of neglect and keep your vehicle running smoothly. Call Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL, to schedule your next service appointment today.
Connect with us
Archives
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.