Keeping your Kia in great shape means staying on top of oil changes. Changing your oil means making sure your car runs smoothly and stays reliable. While the exact timing can change based on your model and how you drive, there are some simple guidelines for when it’s time to head to the Kia dealer to get that oil swapped out.
When to Change Your Oil at the Kia Dealer
For most Kias, the manufacturer recommends fresh oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for most newer models. However, if you often drive in harsh conditions, heavy traffic, extreme temperatures, or dusty roads, you might need to change the oil more frequently.
Signs You’re Overdue for an Oil Change
Warning Lights
If your car’s trying to get your attention by flashing the check engine or oil lights, you should probably listen. Schedule an oil service right away.
Dirty Oil
If your oil looks more like sludge than the amber liquid it was when it began, it’s time for a change. Oil accumulates dirt and debris as it circulates through the engine, keeping it clean and depositing contaminants in the filter, where it can be removed. Once your oil has picked up so much dirt that it’s turning dark, you need fresh oil.
Noisy Engine
Oil keeps your engine parts nice and smooth. When it gets old, your engine will start complaining by increasing the noise it makes as it runs. This noise is a signal that your engine parts are rubbing together, potentially becoming damaged.
Oil Smell in the Car
Smelling oil inside your car isn’t usually a good sign. It could mean your old oil is burning off in your engine, or it could signal something serious like an oil leak.
Smoke from the Exhaust
A little vapor coming from your tailpipe is perfectly normal, especially if temperatures are cold. Smoke is a different story, letting you know that something is burning inside your car.
Low Oil Levels
Keep an eye on your dipstick, which you should be using to monitor the level and condition of your oil at least once a month. If you’re always running low on oil, especially just after you’ve topped it off, there’s a problem.
Why Is Oil So Important?
Beyond just keeping things running, regularly changing the oil in your car helps avoid bigger, more expensive problems down the line. Oil keeps engine parts from rubbing up against each other and getting damaged, helps the engine stay cool, and gets rid of nasty bits of dust and metal shavings that can damage things over time.
Following Kia’s recommended maintenance schedule and keeping an eye on signs you might need oil sooner is good for your car. Call Kia of Coatesville in Coatesville, PA, to schedule your next oil service.
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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.