When it comes to maintaining the health and performance of your diesel engine, regular oil changes are crucial. At Branch Automotive in Littleton, CO, we understand the unique needs of diesel vehicles. As a local, family-owned service center with a team of ASE-certified technicians and diesel specialists, we’re here to provide you with expert advice on when it’s time for an oil change. Here are five signs that indicate your diesel engine needs an oil change, ensuring your vehicle continues to run smoothly and efficiently.
Understanding the Importance of Regular Oil Changes
Regular oil changes are vital for maintaining the longevity and efficiency of your diesel engine. Oil lubricates the engine’s moving parts, reduces friction, and helps to dissipate heat. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with soot, dirt, and debris from the combustion process, losing its effectiveness.
1. Overly Dark and Dirty Oil
One of the most obvious signs that your diesel engine needs an oil change is when the oil becomes overly dark and dirty. New engine oil is typically a clear, amber color. As it circulates through the engine, it picks up particles and contaminants, which change its color and consistency. Checking your oil regularly can help you monitor its condition. If the oil on the dipstick is dark and gritty, it’s time for an oil change. Diesel engines are tricky, after running the vehicle, you will notice that the oil is dark already. That is a result of the diesel combustion process. Our recommendation is to change the engine oil every 5,000 miles to ensure proper lubrication and protection of your high performance engine.
2. Increased Engine Noise
Diesel engines are naturally louder than gas engines, but they shouldn’t be excessively noisy. Oil provides a protective barrier between engine parts, reducing noise. If you notice an increase in engine noise or knocking, it could be a sign that your oil has degraded and is not providing adequate lubrication.
3. Oil Change Light or Check Engine Light Comes On
Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that monitor the condition of the engine oil. If your oil change light or check engine light illuminates the dashboard, it’s a clear indication that your vehicle needs attention. Don’t ignore these warnings; schedule an oil service or testing appointment to prevent further damage to your engine. Furthermore, our recommendation is to have an oil service performed every 5,000 miles to protect your diesel engine.
4. Decreased Fuel Efficiency
If you notice that your diesel vehicle isn’t going as far on a tank of fuel as it used to, it could be due to old, dirty engine oil. Clean oil allows your engine to run more efficiently. When oil becomes thick and contaminated, your engine has to work harder, which can decrease fuel efficiency.
5. Excessive Exhaust Smoke
Excessive exhaust smoke, particularly if it’s blue, can indicate that oil is burning within your engine’s combustion chamber. This could be a sign that your oil is old and contaminated, leading to poor engine performance and increased oil consumption. An oil change can help address this issue. Engine damage commonly called blow-by can create this issue also. Additionally, if the engine oil level is over-full, excessive smoking can be a problem. Today’s modern diesels mask this issue with the exhaust aftertreatment, which is designed to limit visible smoke from the tailpipe, among other things. In cases like this, you’ll usually be warned with a check engine light.
Choose Branch Automotive for Your Oil Change Services
At Branch Automotive, we specialize in diesel repair and maintenance, including oil change services for diesel engines. With our expertise and state-of-the-art equipment, including a chassis dynamometer, we ensure your diesel vehicle receives the best care possible. Our commitment to quality is backed by a nationwide warranty on most repairs.
There’s a LOT more that goes into an oil change than you think
At Branch Automotive, we’re not changing oil, we’re providing a premium engine oil service. When we service your vehicle, we also perform a full digital vehicle inspection so that you know that your diesel vehicle is ready for the next journey. We inspect your brakes, monitor fluid levels and conditions, test the freeze protection of the coolant, inspect battery state of charge and health, test the vehicle’s exterior lighting, ensure the wipers and washer system function correctly, and much more – all to make sure that we know that we are doing everything that we can to keep you where you belong – out on the road doing the things you want to do.
Schedule Your Oil Change Near Me
If you’re experiencing any of these signs with your diesel engine, it’s time for an oil service. Contact Branch Automotive, your local authority on diesel engine maintenance in Littleton, CO. Call us at (303) 771-2224 or visit our shop at 6030 E County Line Road, Littleton, CO 80126. Learn more about our services at https://branchautomotive.com and ensure your diesel engine continues to perform at its best.
