Car engines are designed to use oil to lubricate and cool the engine. If your car is losing oil, it means that there’s not enough of it. The most common causes of this are: 1) an obstruction in the oil flow, such as a rock or piece of metal blocking the path; 2) excessive wear and tear on the engine; or 3) a clogged oil filter.
If you’ve been noticing that your car has been losing a lot of oil and you can’t seem to figure out why, take a look at these four possible causes and see if any of them applies to your situation.
What Causes a Car to Lose Oil?
Most car engines use oil as a lubricant to prevent metal to metal contact. If the oil isn’t being properly circulated or if it’s becoming contaminated, it can lead to a loss of oil. Common causes of a car losing oil include:
-Leaking engine oil: This is the most common cause of a car losing oil. Over time, the oil will seep out of the engine and onto the ground. A leaky gasket or a faulty seal can also be responsible for a leaky engine.
-Corrosion: If the engine is exposed to corrosive chemicals or water, the metal can corrode and cause a loss of oil.
-Faulty valve seals: These seals help keep the engine cool, and if they become defective, they can allow air and moisture into the engine, causing corrosion and a loss of oil.
How to Check Engine Light is Related to Oil Level
If you are having trouble starting your car, or the engine light comes on, there may be a problem with the oil level. You can check the oil level by following these simple steps:
1. Park your car in a safe location.
2. Turn off the ignition and remove the key from the ignition.
3. Open the hood and locate the oil dipstick. It is usually located near the front of the engine bay.
4. Insert the dipstick into the oil filler hole located above it on the side of the engine block. Make sure that it is fully inserted into the hole before turning it counterclockwise to remove it. The level of oil should be at or below “Full.” If not, add more oil until it is.
5. Close the hood and turn on the ignition to restart your car.
How Often Should You Change the Oil in My Car?
If your car is properly maintained and you drive it sparingly, you may not need to change the oil in your car as often as you might think. However, if your car is used more often or you drive it aggressively, changing the oil every 3,000 miles may be a good idea.
The best time to change the oil in your car is when the manufacturer recommends. Mobil 1 and other oil companies have specific recommendations for when to change the oil in different makes of cars. Many mechanics also use a “wear indicator” to determine when the oil needs to be changed. This indicator basically tells the mechanic that the metal surfaces inside the engine have become so worn down from friction that they are making noise and heat which can shorten engine life.
Conclusion
It’s no secret that the oil industry is in a bit of trouble. With prices for crude oil on the rise and demand outstripping supply, it seems like there’s only one way to go: down. But what does this mean for drivers? For one, your car may start losing oil. And if you’re not careful, that could lead to costly repairs or even a total loss of your vehicle. Here are five tips to help you keep your car running smoothly and avoid any unexpected surprises from the engine bay.