Regularly changing the motor oil in your big rig keeps your engine running smoothly. While most experts recommend changing your oil around every 25,000 miles, this depends on the make and model of your truck and the driving conditions. Luckily, there are a few signs that indicate a need for new oil.

How to Tell When to Change Your Truck’s Motor Oil

1. There’s Dirty, Dark Oil

Regularly checking your engine’s motor oil not only alerts you to when you’re running low, but can indicate that the fluid is inadequate. Very dark or black liquid contains sediments that may cause engine corrosion.

You can check this by first wiping off your dipstick and then placing it back in the tube. Pull it out and try to view the reading. If you can’t read it, your engine oil is too dirty.

2. The Change Oil Light Is On

Your change oil light alerts you to low levels. If you see this light come on, check your engine’s oil level using the dipstick. Operating the truck with low oil levels will cause harmful friction, so correct this issue as soon as possible.

3. The Engine Is Noisy

If the engine isn’t properly lubricated, you might notice loud noises while driving. Knocking or screeching may mean the oil levels are low or the liquid is dirty. To prevent overheating or component damage from the friction, check your motor oil.

Power & Transmission Inc. carries synthetic and conventional motor oil for truck drivers in Alaska. Veteran-owned and located in Fairbanks, AK, they have been in business since 1972. They have a large selection of truck parts and everything you need to keep your vehicle running safely, including locking gas caps, anti-siphon features, and windshield wipers. Check out their website to learn more about their products or call them at (907) 456-2230 to ask what they have in stock.