How to Tell If It’s Time for an Oil Change: 10 Warning Signs

Posted on May 1, 2023 by autorepair

Are you wondering if it is time for an oil change? Regular oil changes are essential to keeping your car running smoothly and extending its life. But how do you know when it’s time for a change? Fortunately, there are some warning signs that can help tell you when it’s time for an oil change.

In this blog post, we will explore 10 of the most common warning signs that indicate it may be time to get your vehicle serviced with an oil change as part of your factory scheduled service program. Continue reading to learn more about these important indicators so that you can keep your car in top condition!

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10 Signs That Suggest It’s Time to Get Your Oil Changed

1. Check engine light: One of the most obvious indicators that your car may need an oil change is if the check engine light comes on. If this occurs, it is essential that you get to a qualified mechanic right away so they can diagnose the source of the problem and determine whether or not an oil change is necessary.

2. Excessive smoke from exhaust pipe: Another warning sign that your vehicle may need an oil change is if there is excessive smoke coming from its exhaust pipe when the engine is running. This could be caused by too much fuel being burned with too little lubrication, which indicates that your car needs fresh oil and a new filter.

3. Unusual noises: If you notice any unusual sounds coming from your engine, it could be a sign that the oil needs to be changed. Screeching or knocking sounds can indicate that the oil is low or dirty, so it’s important to take your car in for service if you hear these noises.

4. Dark, gritty oil: If the oil looks dark and gritty when it is checked, this could mean that it is old and full of contaminants. This will reduce its performance in lubricating the engine parts, so it should be replaced with fresh oil asap.

5. Low levels of oil: Another major warning sign that an oil change may be necessary is if there are low levels of oil in your vehicle. Keep an eye on your dipstick and check it often to make sure the oil levels are not getting too low.

6. Engine overheating: If your car’s engine is running hotter than usual, this could indicate that there is a lack of lubrication due to dirty or old oil. An oil change can help reduce engine temperature and protect your vehicle from damage caused by overheating.

7. Sludgy residue in dipstick: When you check the dipstick, if the oil feels thick or sludgy, this usually means that it has become contaminated over time and needs to be changed.

8. Unusual odor: A strong burning smell coming from under your hood could mean that motor oil has burned up and requires replacement.

9. Vehicle performance: If you notice that your vehicle is performing worse than usual, such as losing power or struggling to accelerate, this could be a sign that the engine has become gunked up due to old oil and needs an oil change.

10. Factory scheduled service: Finally, it’s important to keep track of when your factory scheduled service program suggests getting your car serviced for an oil change. Ignoring this schedule can lead to problems down the road and should be avoided at all costs!

The Importance of Good Oil Change Timing

These are just some of the most common warning signs that indicate it may be time for an oil change. Pay attention to them so that you can catch any issues with your car before they become major problems. And don’t forget to stick to your factory scheduled service program for regular oil changes that will keep your vehicle running smoothly and prolong its life!

By understanding these 10 warning signs, you can ensure that your car is maintained properly and remains in good condition for years to come. So, if you notice any of these indicators, don’t hesitate to get an oil change as soon as possible! It could save you a lot of time, money, and frustration down the road.

Are you ready to book your scheduled oil change and routine automotive services with a dependable mechanic? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE licensed and trained factory scheduled maintenance and oil changes in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer oil change specials, year round!

What You Need to Know About Car Engine Steam Cleaning

Posted on June 17, 2021 by autorepair

After some time, some drivers will choose to have their engine’s steam cleaned to remove the years of built-up dirt, grease, and oil. But many drivers are hesitant to steam clean their engines because they believe it might be damaging to the motor. The reality is, if implemented properly and professionally, engine steam cleaning can be highly beneficial to a vehicle. But if not done properly, it can have the potential to cause some interior damage to a vehicle’s engine.

Continue reading to learn more about engine steam cleaning, and tips to promote better engine performance.

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Car Engine Cleaning Services

Engine steam cleaning uses hot, high-pressured water to remove particle build-up and accumulation in a vehicle’s engine and motor compartment. It is intended to clean the engine and promote smoother and improved performance. Many automotive service shops that provide this service will also use a de-greasing additive to assist in the removal process. These products break the oils and grease down, making it substantially easier to remove them.

The most important precaution to take in the process of engine steam cleaning is to make sure water does not get inside the engine, including the air intake and under the distributor cap. If water enters these areas, there can be problems. The other precaution to take in terms of engine cleaning is using the high-pressure water wand properly as to not remove paint and manufacturer decals.

These reasons are why it requires the skill of a trained professional to implement a safe engine steam cleaning job. Not only do they have to constantly move and maneuver the water wand to ensure exterior damage is avoided, they must also have the skill to comprehensively clean the engine and compartment proficiently and without causing water to enter the engine.

Car Engine Maintenance and Care

It is important to follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule as lined out in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Always be sure your car has all the required fluids it needs to operate safely and properly, and have these fluids flushed, changed, or re-filled as necessary. After several thousand miles, it is important to have your motor serviced, to inspect everything from timing belts and spark plugs to distribution caps, transfers cases, and much more. An engine tune-up is necessary after 60,000 miles or so. Talk to your local trusted Indianapolis IN auto repair mechanic about your vehicle’s necessary maintenance schedule, and catch up on all the services you need now, before the winter is here!

Are you looking for fast and affordable car engine repair and service near you? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional, ASE-licensed engine repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

You Should Also Read:

Why is My Check Engine Light On?
3 Options for Homemade Engine Degreaser
When Should I Change the Oil in My Vehicle?

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Recommended Factory Scheduled Maintenance for All Vehicles

Posted on March 10, 2016 by autorepair

Vehicles are one of the most valuable and significant assets in a person’s life. Purchasing a car or truck is a big investment, which is why protecting it is so crucial. When it comes to your car or truck, factory scheduled maintenance is the answer to a long-lasting, reliable, and healthy vehicle. Every 5,000 miles, all vehicles should be taken to a licensed mechanic for factory scheduled services. Continue reading to learn the most important routine maintenance and care obligations in order to make your vehicular investment last a lot longer.

Fluid and Oil Changes

One of the most obvious and common factory scheduled maintenance for cars and trucks is fluid changes. This includes oil changes, brake fluid, motor oil, coolant or antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, fluid refills, transmission fluid, battery fluid, and power steering fluids. As you can see, cars operate on several different fluids, all of which serve a very important purpose. Without some of these fluids being refilled or replaced, a person can put themselves at risk while driving, or total their vehicles in the long run.

Tire Maintenance

Tires are the components of a vehicle that make contact with the ground and keep us moving in the direction we choose. Tires are vital components and require routine care for safety and longevity. Services such as tire balancing, tire rotations, changing tires, air refills, tread checks, tire inspections, and more are all vital parts of vehicle protection and care.

Vehicle Batteries

Without a properly charged and operational battery, one cannot expect their vehicle to function at all. Batteries in cars and trucks require routine maintenance and eventual replacement. They also require fluid refills and changes, depending on the make and model vehicle and the particular circumstances. Sometimes we leave the car lights on overnight by accident, which drains the battery life.

Then when you try to start your car in the morning, it won’t even make a sound. All you have to do is re-charge the battery in this case; a task that takes only a few minutes. All you need is car cables and another vehicle’s engine for power and juice. If you did not leave on your lights, or leave a door ajar for too long, and your battery id dead, it probably just needs replaced. A new car battery is cheap, costing anywhere from $50 to $80 depending on the type you choose.

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Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highly trained and ASE licensed automotive mechanics that provide service and repair for all make and model vehicles. We also offer discounts, auto repair coupons, DIY advice, and general information about regular scheduled car maintenance. Call 317-475-1846 when you need trusted automotive service in Indianapolis, IN.

Recommended Car Maintenance Schedule

Posted on April 24, 2015 by autorepair

Most vehicles are manufactured and designed to have a lifespan of at least ten to fifteen years. But this doesn’t happen without a little effort and initiative. Routine car maintenance is imperative for optimal vehicular performance and longevity. You cannot expect your car or truck to stand the test of time without regular scheduled vehicular maintenance and care. Fluids, tires, auto parts, and more all require specific services within a particular time schedule.

The first place to look for your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule is the owners’ manual. You can find all the information you need about factory scheduled maintenance and troubleshooting problems for your vehicle. Continue reading to grasp a general idea of which factory scheduled maintenance services your vehicle needs, and when you should be outsourcing those services to better protect your asset.

3,000 Miles

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In order to keep your engine in optimal condition, the motor oil needs refilled on a regular basis, and the oil filters need replaced at the same time. Since your car engine is one of the most expensive and valuable components in your vehicle, it is in your best interest to change the oil and oil filter in order to avoid engine problems and costly repairs.

It is also important to replace the spark plug after changing your motor oil, and refill the coolant as well. These tasks should be done every three thousand miles or every three months, whichever comes first. This is just a general rule and should be adjusted according to the amount and type of driving you do.

7,000 Miles

Once you have reached seven thousand miles, or around 6 or 7 months, you need to have your tires serviced. This involves a tire rotation, balancing, break pad replacements (if needed), brake rotor inspections and replacements (if needed), and even tire replacement, if needed. Another maintenance task that should be done at the 7,000 mile interval is battery replacement. Your car battery may need recharging, servicing, upgrading, or even replacing at this point of the year.

Annually

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One time per year, your vehicle should be inspected all over, like a check-up. This is because at this point, it will need a few services. First, the transmission fluid needs flushed and refilled, and the actual transmission should be examined for leaks. Next, your vehicle will need a few filters replaced, like the air filter and the carbon canister filter. At this point, it is probably time to have your brakes re-serviced or inspected too.

30,000 Miles

Every 30,000 miles, or two years, your vehicle needs a bit more attention. It needs all the above services already mentioned, in combination with several more. This includes an auto tune-up, brake fluid replacement, spark plug replacement, brake rotor replacement, transfer case fluid replacement, wire and distribution cap replacement, and much more. At this point, it is best to have a licensed mechanic undertake all of these factory scheduled maintenance tasks for liable and professional results.

60,000 Miles

After four or five years, your vehicle will probably have a few parts that need repaired or replaced. Be sure to have any defective auto parts repaired right away to avoid more costly repairs down the road. And be sure to keep up with all the other regular scheduled maintenance tasks your vehicle requires.

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Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for affordable car maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highly trained and ASE licensed car mechanics with decades of experience in the automotive service industry. We offer a wide range of auto repair services for all make and model vehicles. Call 317-475-1846 for information about our Indianapolis factory scheduled maintenance prices and current specials, today.

Important Fluids Every Vehicle Should Maintain

Posted on July 4, 2014 by autorepair

In order for a car or truck to perform and operate properly, it is vital for their fluid levels to be healthy and constant. There are at least 7 different types of fluids and solutions that every vehicle should always have; and they need these fluids to promote longevity and safety for the driver. These fluids play a major role in the operation of several vehicular systems; including the engine, brakes, transmission, and more. If the fluids reach their minimum levels, or dry out completely, trouble is in close proximity. Without these essential car fluids, a vehicle doesn’t stand a chance on the road. Continue reading to learn about the important fluids vehicles need to thrive and perform on a daily basis.

Motor Oil

Motor oil is one of the most important fluid for any vehicle. When a vehicle is being driven, the engine produces a mass amount of heat and friction. Oil keeps the moving components within a crankcase, lubricated at all times. This lubrication reduces friction and high heat; which can damage pistons, valves, and more. Motor oil needs flushed and changed-out on an annual basis, or more, depending on the age and condition of the vehicle, and how much it is driven. The normal time-frame is every 5,000 or six months.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is the most important solution for vehicles; especially in terms of safety. Without brake fluid, driving a car can be a death wish. We must be able to stop a vehicle once it is in motion. If a car cannot properly brake, this could mean serious injury to pedestrians, other drivers, or the driver themselves. Not only can a lack of brake fluid be dangerous to people, it can also quickly deteriorate a vehicle’s brake system. Brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, and more are all affected by poor brake fluid maintenance. This should be done by a licensed mechanic every few thousand miles, or 6 months.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is that red solution used to lubricate the inner-working parts of a transmission; just like motor oil for an engine. It simply cools and lubricates the moving parts, and reduces high heat and friction. Again, this fluid should be inspected and changed out by a licensed Indianapolis Automotive Repair specialist every 5,000 miles or 6 months.

Windshield Wiper Fluid

Windshield wiper fluid is common and not vital for a vehicle to operate efficiently; however, it is crucial for driver safety. It is a cleansing liquid that is squirted out from the outer-dash, directly onto the windshield. The wipers automatically initiate and smear and clear the liquid away, leaving behind a lucid window for drivers. During snowing and wet seasons, this fluid is extremely helpful and can mean the difference between an accident and a close-encounter. If you get dredged with dirty water and snow by a semi-truck on the highway, you better hope you have windshield wiper fluid to immediately clear your view at 60 miles per hour! Fortunately, this can be administered by the car owner themselves and it is quite easy to do!

Antifreeze/Coolant

Antifreeze, or coolant, is another fluid that prevents an internal combustion engine from overheating while on the road. Coolant is commonly a 50/50 combination of water and radiator coolant. In colder climates, this ratio is stronger on the coolant side, and visa-verse. Antifreeze is just that; a heat transfer liquid. It prevents an overheating vehicle by cycling through the engine and absorbing heat; and then returning the heat to the radiator, and out into the air. If a vehicle does not retain proper coolant levels, it will quickly overheat and be inoperable. This is another fluid that can be administered by the vehicle owner.

Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is necessary for smooth and easy steering. It is pressurized by a small hydraulic pump that is powered by the car engine. It aids the steering mechanism that directs the tires. Without power steering fluid, turning the wheel can seem like pulling a 50 pound weight! Older model vehicles do not even come with power steering capabilities. If your vehicle has power steering, then it will require routine power steering fluid refills and replacements.

Factory Scheduled Maintenance in Indianapolis, IN

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Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional factory scheduled maintenance services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highly trained and ASE licensed mechanics with more than three decades of experience in the automotive service industry. We repair and service all make and model vehicles at the most competitive rates in town. In fact, we offer auto repair coupons and discounts for those who qualify! Call 317-475-1846 and receive a free estimate for routine maintenance and auto repair in Indianapolis, IN and its nearby neighborhoods.