What your engine oil is telling you
Checking your oil takes two minutes. Park on level ground, wait a few minutes after switching off, pull the dipstick, wipe it, push it back in and pull it out again. Then look closely.
Healthy oil: amber and smooth
Fresh oil is a clear amber colour and feels smooth between your fingers. As it works it darkens, which is normal. If it is dark but still smooth and at the right level, you are simply getting close to your next change.
Milky or frothy oil
Oil that looks like milky coffee can mean coolant is mixing with it, which may point to a failing head gasket. Do not just top it up. Book an inspection as soon as you can.
Glittery specks
Tiny metallic flecks can be a sign of internal engine wear. Catching it early can be the difference between a repair and a replacement engine.
Level keeps dropping
If you need to top up between changes, the engine is either leaking or burning oil. Running low increases friction and heat, so have it checked before it causes damage.
Thick, sludgy oil
Sludge usually means the oil is long overdue for a change or the engine's ventilation system is blocked. It reduces efficiency and can starve parts of lubrication.
When to call us
Anything other than smooth, amber-to-brown oil at the right level is worth a look. Book an oil change or inspection and we will show you what we find.