Key Takeaways 

• Engine oil lubricates the engine’s moving parts, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
• Kia recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles or once a year. 
• Low oil levels, loud engine noise, and pungent oil smell indicate that an oil change is needed. 
• Dirty or dark-colored engine oil is a sign of fuel that has worn down and should be changed immediately. 
• Regular oil changes protect your engine’s parts from unnecessary friction and overheating. 

Proper engine oil lubrication is essential for maintaining your car’s engine’s quality and smooth performance. However, over time, the engine oil breaks down, which can affect its ability to act as a lubricant and coolant for the engine.

That’s why it’s important to know when an oil change is needed to keep your car’s engine in shape. While Kia recommends different schedules for oil changes depending on the model, mileage is typically the most significant factor. However, other signs can also suggest that an oil change is necessary. 

Keep reading to learn about all the signs indicating your Kia needs an oil change.

What You Should Know for a Kia Oil Change

Your Kia vehicle needs an oil change regularly because engine oil degrades over time, losing its ability to lubricate and protect the engine’s moving parts. Over time, engine oil can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and other particles that can cause damage if left unchecked.

Therefore, regular oil changes are important to ensure the engine has a fresh supply of clean oil that can continue to perform its functions. These include preventing the engine from overheating, protecting against rust and corrosion, and reducing friction. 

Furthermore, failing to change the oil regularly leads to engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency, and higher repair costs.

Kia typically recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles or 12 months, or whichever comes first. However, the automaker advises that these recommendations also depend on the model, severity of driving conditions, and type of oil used.

Additionally, extreme driving conditions like off-roading, racing, heavy towing, and commercial use can increase wear and tear on your engine. In this case, your Kia may require more frequent oil changes than the recommended schedule. 

5 Signs Your Kia Needs an Oil Change

Staying on top of regular oil changes is crucial when taking care of your Kia. As engine oil breaks down over time, it can harm your engine’s lifespan and performance. Thankfully, there are several warning signs to watch out for that indicate it’s time for an oil change.

1. Dark or Dirty Oil

One of the primary indicators that it may be time for an oil change is the appearance of the oil on the dipstick. When you check the dipstick, the oil should have a clear, amber color. If the oil has become dark and dirty, it indicates it’s time for an oil change.

As you use your car, the engine oil begins to break down and can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris. Gradually, these impurities can cause the oil to turn darker and lose its lubricating properties. Furthermore, dirty oil, if it remains unchanged, can increase wear and tear on your engine parts. 

2. Engine Noise

In addition to dirty oil, other signs also indicate it’s time for an oil change. If you notice that your engine is running louder than usual, it could be a sign that the oil needs to be changed. Low oil levels or dirty oil sometimes lead to increased friction and grinding in the engine, creating a noisier operation. 

Therefore, if you notice loud engine noise from your car, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will check the engine oil level and quality and thoroughly inspect the engine components. 

If the engine oil is dirty or low, they will likely recommend an oil change as part of the necessary maintenance or repairs to resolve the issue.

3. Smoke from Exhaust

Your Kia might be due for an oil change if you notice unusual smoke from the exhaust. While transparent smoke is normal, darker smoke in unusual amounts is not good for your car and points towards a bigger issue. 

Dark smoke could indicate that your engine fuel is burning at an alarming rate and needs to be changed. It happens when engine oil becomes dirty and contaminated over time, increasing friction and heat. Moreover, as dirty engine oil loses its lubricating properties, it causes the engine to burn fuel inefficiently.

4. Strong Oil Smell

Another telltale sign that your Kia vehicle needs an oil change is a pungent smell emanating from the engine. A strong smell indicates that your car’s engine is overcompensating for low oil levels, which can lead to serious problems. For instance, engine components experience greater wear and tear when oil levels are low, resulting in damage and costly repairs.

If you notice a pungent oil smell coming from the engine, it’s important to have your car inspected by an auto repair expert. In most cases, an oil change will be recommended to keep your Kia running smoothly and efficiently.

5. Mileage

Finally, keeping track of your vehicle’s mileage as it approaches a particular benchmark for an oil change is essential. Kia provides specific guidelines for when to schedule an oil change based on your model to help maintain a long engine life.  

Conclusion

Regular oil changes and paying attention to warning signs can keep your Kia vehicle running smoothly for years to come. It’s essential to routinely check your car’s oil levels and condition and have it inspected by experts. Furthermore, watch out for the mileage, engine oil levels and color, and dark smoke to know when it’s time for an oil change.

At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, we offer the best auto repair services and authentic parts for your Kia. Visit our trusted dealership at 611 S Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, to look through our inventory of high-quality new and pre-owned Kia vehicles. You can schedule a service online or contact us for more information.