What does the color of your engine oil tell you?
With the new year bringing new journeys, isn’t this the best time to check the condition of the engine before going on a trip? This includes a full inspection of the brakes, radiator, battery, tires, and the condition of the engine oil. If we continue to use engine oil without changing it at the appropriate interval, it can deteriorate over time and may cause major problems to the car.
But what is the color of the engine oil that you can continue using, and in what color should you not? Today, PTT Lubricants will introduce a lucky engine oil color, including which color can be used and which one indicates deterioration. Let's find out!
Which engine oil color indicates the time to change?
• Auspicious engine oil color: Yellow
Regularly, the new engine oil that hasn’t been used usually appears clear yellow with no cloudiness or sediment. When engine oil is added to the engine, its color will become darker as it will combine with the remaining engine oil inside the engine.
• Ominous engine oil color: Dark brown, coffee, or black with sludge
If the engine oil appears in any of these colors, it is recommended to have it changed immediately as these colors indicate deterioration from use.
How to check the color and level of your engine oil
Checking the condition of the engine oil yourself can be done easily. It only requires a dipstick attached to the car and a clean cloth or a piece of paper. If you have everything ready, here is what you should do.
1. Park the car in level area. Let the engine cool down for approximately 15 minutes or until completely cool.
2. Open the car hood and look for the engine oil dipstick, which is a long steel stick with a red or orange plastic handle attached to the engine bay. If you can't find the dipstick,check the car's manual to see its location.
3. Pull the dipstick out and wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth.
4. Insert the dipstick back into its original position.
5. Check the oil level on the dipstick to see if it remains in the Min-Max range. Also check the color of the engine oil and whether there are any dust or contaminants.
If you check the color of the engine oil and it appears in any ominous color as mentioned above, it is advisable to have it changed immediatelyto prevent any problem that can happen to your beloved car.
Make sure to regularly check the condition of your car and don't forget to choose quality engine oil from PTT Lubricants! All products are available today at FIT Auto and PTT Station or any stores that carry PTT Lubricants products near you 💙
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