Your car's engine needs oil to run. So, if your car runs out of oil, the engine won't function properly. In this instance, you need to replace your oil — or risk severe engine damage. The oil change light in your car warns you if your vehicle's oil level is running low. However, if you wait too long to change your car's oil, your engine will fail. Worst of all, you'll likely be required to invest in costly, time-intensive repairs to get your car running correctly once again.

Signs You Need an Oil Change

In addition to the oil change light in your car, there are other signs you need an oil change, such as:

• Engine Noise: Oil keeps car engine parts lubricated and prevents metal-on-metal brushing. However, if your engine is not properly lubricated, you may notice loud knocking or rumbling sounds coming from the engine bay.
• Dirty Oil: If you check your engine oil and find it is dirty and dark, you may be overdue for an oil change.
• Oil Smell: An oil leak may cause an oil smell to develop inside your car. It can also result in a gas smell and exhaust fumes and cause your vehicle to overheat.
• Exhaust Smoke: Your tailpipe will emit translucent vapor when your car is running. Yet, if this vapor turns into smoke, you should get your car inspected and change the oil.

It is typically beneficial to get your car's oil changed at regular intervals. For most cars, the oil should be changed every 3,000 to 6,000 miles or approximately every three to six months, depending on your car's make and model and how often you drive your vehicle. To determine how often you should change your car's oil, consult with your vehicle's owner's manual. Additionally, don't wait to change your oil if the oil change light in your car turns on, or if it has been an while since your last oil change. It is necessary to change your car's oil regularly to keep your vehicle running properly. Thus, the sooner you change your car's oil, the less likely it becomes that your engine will run out of oil.

What to Do If Your Car Runs Out of Oil

If your car runs out of oil, you should immediately take it to an automotive repair shop where you can get your car's oil changed by automotive professionals. In case oil has damaged your car's engine, an auto repair shop can identify any problems and correct them without delay. It can also help you set up regular oil changes and ensure you can prevent future engine problems. Finally, when it comes to driving a car that runs out of oil, you should only do so in case of emergency events. Driving a car without oil — even if it is for a short period of time — can cause substantial engine damage. Therefore, if possible, you should reach out to a tow company to bring your car to an auto body shop.

Select Fix Auto for Car Repairs

The Fix Auto team is available to perform car repairs. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, please call us today at 1-800-INFO-FIX.   This blog post was contributed by Fix Auto Campbell, a leading industry expert and collision repair shop servicing all customers in Campbell and Santa Clara County neighborhood.