When was the last time you pulled the dipstick out of your engine to check on the state of your motor oil? Chances are - unless you're really well-versed in car care - the only time you ever think about your car's oil is when it's time to schedule an oil change. And while our Clermont auto service center is always here to keep you on a car care schedule, it's helpful for you to keep an eye on the state of things in between appointments.
That's why we sat down with our car care experts at Toyota of Clermont to create a quick guide to motor oil color and what it means for your car's health - use it to gauge how your car is doing in between auto service appointments and to ensure that all is well under the hood.
The four motor oil colors you should be aware of
Caramel, amber, or tan: If your motor oil is caramel or tan in hue, then you're in a good place. This is the color it should be and as long as the oil level falls in between the two tic marks on the dipstick, you can rest easy that your oil is doing its job in keeping your car up and running.
Dark brown or black: If you pull the dipstick out and notice that your car oil is dark brown or black in color, you might want to have our Clermont Toyota techs take a closer look. Typically, this hue means that the oil is dirty, has been exposed to heat inside the engine too many times, or both. This is especially true if you see particles of dirt or debris in the oil. Cycling this color motor oil through your engine can do damage to it and cost you a ton of money in repairs, so schedule an oil change ASAP.
Milky: Notice that your oil is sort of milky in color? This can mean you have a moisture issue - somehow, moisture is getting into the oil, which is very problematic for performance. If you notice this color oil in conjunction with white exhaust smoke or low coolant levels, that's a strong indication that you have a head gasket leak. Let our expert auto care techs take a look before any more damage is done.
Milky with a frothy texture: OK, so let's say that your motor oil is milky in color, but you also notice that it has a frothy or bubbly texture, and that no other signs of a head gasket leak are present. What does this mean? Typically, it indicates that you have water in your oil, which is also very problematic for your engine as it messes with the viscosity of the oil. Toyota of Clermont can find out where the leak is and get you back up and running.
Get your motor oil checked at Toyota of Clermont
Have questions about your motor oil? Call us! Toyota of Clermont is open seven days a week at (352) 404-7001. We're conveniently just west of the Florida Turnpike at 16851 State Road 50.
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