How to Know When You Need a Subaru Oil Change

Among the many regular maintenance tasks that keep your car running great, a Subaru oil change is the most important. Here we address several signs that an oil change is needed, so that you can schedule an appointment in a timely fashion.  

Ticking Sound When Starting the Engine 

The moment you start your car’s engine, oil starts moving. However, old and dirty oil takes longer to move, which can result in the engine making a ticking sound as it works to move the oil through its system.  

Vibrations While Idling 

The most important job of motor oil is to lubricate the engine and the various Subaru parts that support it. However, if the engine doesn’t have enough oil — or if the oil is too thick with dirt and sediment — these parts won’t receive enough lubrication, leading to excessive friction. This in turn can lead to vibrations caused by the metal parts rubbing together with nothing to smooth the interaction.  

Poor Fuel Economy 

The longer you wait to schedule an oil change at our Subaru dealership,  the harder your car’s engine has to work to produce the appropriate speed and power. Unfortunately, when the engine has to work extra hard, the car’s fuel economy will suffer — which could result in you having to visit the gas station more.  

Check Engine Light Comes On 

The most obvious sign that an oil change is needed when your car’s check engine light comes on. And while it’s true that this light can signal other issues besides an oil change, you’ll probably know right away whether you’ve waited too long to schedule an oil change. Moreover, on many modern cars a specific “oil change needed” light or notification will appear, which makes it even easier to stay on schedule.  

Overheating 

Every car has an engine temperature gauge, and the ideal position of the needle in this gauge is right in the middle. But the hotter the engine gets, the farther the needle moves to the right. A major cause of this is metal-on-metal friction due to a lack of oil. Make an appointment at Serra Subaru Champaign before the needle enters the danger zone. 

Schedule a Subaru Oil Change Today 

Don’t put off until tomorrow what is best done today — schedule a service appointment and ensure that your car is always in top condition. Plus, with our Subaru oil change coupons, you can count on saving money every time you come in. Visit us today!