But your engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle, especially when it's fighting through West Texas dust and heat. Waiting for the mileage counter to hit a magic number is like waiting for your dog to tap you on the shoulder to say he's thirsty. You have to read the signs.

Here are the top signals your oil needs changing, long before you hit that mileage milestone.

1. The Engine Sounds Like a Coffee Can Full of Marbles

You know the sound. That smooth, quiet purr you're used to is replaced by a louder, rougher, and more... clattery sound. This is particularly noticeable when you start the car in the morning or accelerate onto Loop 306.

Why it happens: Fresh oil is slick and viscous, creating a protective cushion between metal parts. As it breaks down, it gets thinner and less effective. Metal starts to kiss metal more than it should, and that pleasant purr turns into an angry grumble. It’s your engine’s way of saying, "I'm not happy, and I'm going to be loud about it."

2. The "Check Engine" or "Oil Change" Light is Giving You the Eye

This one seems obvious, but many people ignore it, thinking it's just a reminder. Modern cars are smart. Their sensors monitor oil life based on engine temperature, RPMs, and load, not just miles. That light isn't a suggestion; it's a diagnosis.

Why it happens: Your car's computer has determined that the oil's protective properties have degraded to a critical level. It's not just counting miles; it's assessing how hard you've been working that oil on those hot San Angelo drives. Trust the computer. It’s rarely wrong.

3. It's Darker Than a West Texas Night (And Just as Gritty)

The classic dipstick test. Pull it out, wipe it clean, and dip it again. Fresh oil has a translucent amber color, like honey. If what you see is thick, black, and opaque, it's long past its prime.

Why it happens: Oil doesn't just lubricate; it cleans. It suspends soot, metal particles, and combustion byproducts to keep your engine clean. Once it's saturated with this gunk, it can't hold any more, and that debris starts circulating like dirt in a dust devil, acting as an abrasive.

4. You Can Smell Oil or Gas Inside the Cabin

If you catch a whiff of burnt oil or gasoline while you're driving, it's a red flag. This could indicate an oil leak dripping onto a hot engine part or, more seriously, that fuel is diluting your oil in the crankcase.

Why it happens: This is a sign that things are getting critical. An oil leak needs immediate attention. Fuel in the oil is even worse, as it drastically thins the oil out, destroying its ability to lubricate. Don't ignore strange smells; they're the ghosts of future repairs warning you.

5. Your Fuel Economy Has Taken a Nosedive

Have you found yourself visiting the gas station more often for your usual routine? Sludgy, old oil creates more friction inside the engine. Your engine has to work harder and burn more fuel to overcome that resistance.

Why it happens: It's simple physics. An engine struggling against gritty, inefficient oil is like trying to ride a bike with the brakes slightly engaged. You're wasting gas and money. A simple oil change can often restore those lost MPGs.

Sure, you can drain and fill oil in your driveway. But a professional service at Ric Henry’s Auto Service is about more than just new oil. It’s a complete inspection. Our technicians will:

• Use the correct oil type and premium filter for your specific vehicle and our climate.

• Perform a multi-point inspection to spot small leaks or issues before they leave you stranded on the way to Goodfellow.

• Properly dispose of the old oil (an often-overlooked but critical environmental step).

• Back the entire service with our 3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty for unparalleled peace of mind.

We use the same tools and equipment as the dealership to ensure the job is done right. Think of it not as an expense, but as the cheapest insurance policy you can buy for your engine.