Signs That Your BMW Is Due For An Oil Change

Bayerische Motoren Works AG, commonly referred to as BMW, is a German automobile manufacturer that was founded in 1916. These vehicles are built to last with their optimal engine performance, luxurious comforts, and high-tech features. However, they still require routine maintenance, including checking and replacing fluids like engine oil. Below are common signs that tell your BMW is due for an oil change.

What does engine oil do?

Engine oil is essential in keeping your BMW running smoothly. Traditional motor oil has many responsibilities, including lubricating moving parts of the engine to reduce friction as well as cleaning, cooling, and protecting the engine.

Modern synthetic engine oil does much more than just lubricate your engine. It provides protection against premature wear, maintains its viscosity through extreme temperatures, prevents a buildup of acid, as well as cleans and protects the various engine compartments.

While traditional motor oil was designed with additives to protect the engine, modern synthetic oil is made up of approximately 10% to 30% additives that act as detergents to keep the engine compartments clean, lubricants to reduce friction, antioxidants, and corrosion preventatives. Engine oil is no longer ‘just’ oil.

Is your BMW due for an oil change?

There are several common warning signs that alert drivers to the need for an oil change. Below are a few of the most commonly reported signs.

An illuminated dashboard warning

All BMWs are equipped with an electronic computer module that sends and receives signals including that of a needed oil change. When an oil change is needed, the most obvious sign is an illuminated oil lamp on the dashboard. Modern automobiles are equipped with indicators that tell the driver how many miles until the next oil change is needed to give them adequate time to prepare for and schedule an oil change service.

Loud, abnormal noises

Vehicles make audible noises from the engine, however, when your vehicle emits rumbling and/or knocking noises from the engine, there is an issue. When the moving parts within your engine are rubbing together due to a lack of lubrication, these noises become louder and more noticeable to the driver. This is a direct result of the lack of lubrication from an insufficient amount of engine oil in the oil reserve.

Abnormal exhaust smoke

Small amounts of exhaust smoke are relatively normal, but when oil begins leaking into the engine, smoke will begin billowing out from the exhaust. It is important that as a driver you do not ignore this sign as it can result in significant engine damage.

Dark, dirty oil

Fresh, clean engine oil is a light brown color that is translucent, allowing a small amount of light through. When engine oil is old and no longer able to do its job, it will change color and texture. The oil becomes much darker than normal and thick, not allowing it to easily pass through the moving parts of the engine.

Decreased fuel economy

Thick, old, and dirty engine oil forces the engine to work harder to function, resulting in increased fuel consumption. If you begin to notice your vehicle is using much more fuel than normal, check the oil.

The old advice of changing your engine oil every 3,000 miles is used less often in modern-day times as synthetic oil is designed to last 7,500 to 10,000 miles. It is important that you follow the recommendation put forth by your vehicle manufacturer in the owner’s manual of your BMW.

Ultimate Bimmer Service has got your back!

Is your vehicle exhibiting signs that an oil change service is needed? Call or stop by our Carrollton and Dallas BMW dealership today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert technicians. At Ultimate Bimmer Service, we do not sacrifice quality for quantity. Our team members take their time to ensure accuracy with each customer to get the job done exceptionally well the first time.