Do you know how long it's been since you took your vehicle in to the dealership? Do you remember the last time you went to get a Ford oil change? Did those questions make you stop and think a little? Let's take a look at how to know if it's time to take your Ford into the dealership for a little tune-up.
How Long Since Your Last Ford Oil Change?
If you're lucky, the last time you got an oil change done, the shop or dealership put a handy little sticker on your windshield to remind you when to come in next. The standard procedure used to be 3,000 miles between oil changes, but with newer engines, those numbers are being stretched a lot longer. Many cars, especially those that use synthetic oil, can go up to ten, even fifteen thousand miles, before needing to go into the shop.
At a minimum, your Ford likely needs an oil change (including oil filter) twice a year. But if you didn't write down the date last time, or your dealership didn't put a sticker on your window, it's no big deal. There are other ways to know when it's time to have your car looked at.
What Does the Oil Look Like?
Pop the hood and take a look at the oil itself for a clue. You'll find the dipstick by taking a look at your owner's manual. Take it out and wipe it off before reinserting it to check the oil. Make sure the level is between the maximum and minimum lines on the dipstick, then check the color. The darker the oil, the more quickly you should head to the shop. Fresh oil should be a light brown color and a little transparent.
If you feel like getting your hands dirty, you can always check out the consistency of the oil in your Ford. Rub a little of it between your fingers, feeling for any grit or dirt. If you've had an oil change recently, your oil will look clean and smooth and be a nice liquid consistency. The older your oil gets, the darker and more sludgy it becomes.
Lights and Noises
Your car's oil light should turn on when it senses a low oil level or the oil needs to be changed. This is a pretty clear signal to head to your local dealership and have them get to work. If you're not sure about your dashboard lights, take a peek at your owner's manual to find out which light means what.
A final, and much more obvious clue, is if your Ford starts making some funny noises. Especially if you hear what sounds like engine parts knocking around under the hood, you'll know that you're overdue for an oil change. Oil keeps things running smoothly, so by not getting to your dealership soon enough, you may be risking some much more expensive visits later on down the road (if you can make it that far).
Does it sound like your car or truck is in need of an oil change? If so, call or stop by Ken Ganley Ford today to get your Ford back in tip-top shape.