It is extremely important to change your vehicle's oil on the schedule set out by the manufacturer. Fortunately, it's also easy and inexpensive, as it is the most frequently performed maintenance procedure for vehicles. Part of what makes it so easy is the service team at Audi Sewickley, and our commitment to caring for your vehicle. And as a first step, we put together this guide to when to change your oil and how to spot potential issues with your engine oil that might need attention from our service team.
When Is It Time To Change The Oil In Your Audi?
There is no universal schedule for all oil changes. That was once the case, but advances in oil, engines, and manufacturing have made these intervals much more manufacturer and model-specific. Today the oil change intervals vary from one manufacturer to another, one model to another, and even one model year to another. The best and only way to be absolutely sure that your vehicle is getting oil changes when it needs them is to consult your owner's manual. And even though the vehicles in Audi's vast EV lineup doesn't require oil changes, electric vehicle owners should still consult their owner's manual to be sure of the other service intervals that still apply.
The amount of miles driven since the last oil change is the biggest factor in determining when an oil change is needed, but not the only one. Extreme weather, be it heat or cold, can hasten oil breakdown. Extended periods of high-speed or high-revving driving can do the same. So it's important to take note of these factors, and possibly schedule more frequent oil changes if they apply to your vehicle.
How To Spot An Engine Oil Problem
Engine oil problems are much less prevalent today than they used to be, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't keep an eye out for the warning signs that your vehicle needs attention for this critical component. A small oil problem can become a major one pretty quickly, so it's important to know what to look for.
Oil Puddles Or Stains
If you notice a stain on the ground where you usually park your vehicle, there is a good chance that there is a small leak somewhere on your engine. You should have this looked into quickly, as a small leak doesn't always stay small for all that long. An oil puddle under your vehicle has already become a serious problem, and should be serviced immediately. Just be sure to take a closer look and make sure the fluid isn't water, the result of air conditioner condensation, which is perfectly normal and harmless. It's obviously difficult to see what it looks like under your vehicle while it's parked, so just be sure to check periodically.
Engine Oil Warning Light
Some people think that an engine oil warning light means that their engine is just very low on oil, but it's actually more serious than that. While being very low on oil will trigger a light, the light actually means that the oil pressure is dangerously low. There are other, even more serious reasons for this, apart from a low oil level, and your vehicle needs immediate attention if this light comes on.
Why Get Your Oil Changed At Audi Sewickley
While there are plenty of independent oil change shops around, Audi vehicles have specialized requirements that an independent shop might not be able to accommodate, and it's best not to take the risk. High up the list of those requirements is parts, including things like the oil filter, which needs to be replaced every time you change the oil. We carry only genuine Audi OEM parts, and there is no risk of getting a generic replacement part when you come to us. Our technicians are factory trained Audi experts, and you can rest assured that they know how to carry out every procedure the correct way.
