If you go on a lot of travel, it is crucial to make sure your car has enough oil to cover the journey and is in top condition. However, many people assume that keeping up with regular maintenance, like oil changes, is expensive and time-consuming. But it is not.

In this blog, we’ll share expert hacks designed specifically for UAE drivers, helping you maximize your car’s longevity without draining your wallet. At Yalla Tyres, we understand the challenges and are committed to offering quality oil change services to make vehicle maintenance more affordable.

When to Change Your Oil: Key Signs and Recommendations

Over time, oil breaks down, loses its effectiveness, and becomes degraded, which can lead to engine wear and inefficiency. Therefore, knowing when to change your oil is crucial for running your engine smoothly.

Here are key signs to watch for to keep your engine in top shape;

1. Changing After Regular Intervals

Every vehicle manufacturer provides a recommended oil change interval, typically based on mileage, time, and driving conditions. Here is a rough idea for oil change based on oil type;

  • For Conventional Oil: Change every 5,000-7,000 kilometers.
  • For Synthetic Oil: Change every 10,000-15,000 kilometers.

However, if you often drive in heavy traffic or on sandy roads, consider changing your oil more frequently.

2. Blinking Oil Change Light

Many modern vehicles feature a dashboard oil change light or indicator. If the oil pressure warning light turns on or flashes, low oil levels or a loss of oil pressure could be indicated; therefore, damaging the engine significantly.

If the light continues, you can either change it yourself or arrange a quick oil change to stop harm.

3. Overheating Engine

Engine Overheating is another major sign that your oil may need to be changed. Oil serves to cool and lubricate the engine, so if it becomes dirty or thin, it won’t be able to do its job as effectively.

Symptoms of an overheating engine are;

  • A rising temperature gauge
  • Steam or smoke from under the hood
  • A burning smell from the engine

4. Excessive Exhaust Smoke

If your car is emitting excess smoke from the exhaust pipe, it could be a sign that the oil has spoiled and is no longer providing adequate engine lubrication.

Types of Smoke to Watch For:

  • Blue smoke can indicate that oil is being burned in the engine.
  • White smoke may suggest coolant leaks, but it can also be a signal of oil issues.

5. Changing Oil Color and Consistency

Fresh oil is usually golden brown and has a smooth, slippery texture. Over time, oil collects dirt, dust, and contaminants, causing it to turn dark brown or black and become sludgy.

To check the oil:

  1. Pull out the dipstick.
  2. Wipe it clean, insert it back, and pull it out again.
  3. Check the oil color and consistency. If it’s dark, thick, or has visible particles, it’s time for a change.

4 Oil Change Tips To Save Time And Money

An oil change is significant for maintaining your vehicle’s engine health, but it doesn’t have to be costly or time-consuming. Here are five helpful tips to save time and money while ensuring your car stays top shape.

1. Check the Oil Levels Regularly

Make a proper habit of checking your oil levels to stay ahead of potential problems. You can quickly check your engine's oil levels using a dipstick. If you see less oil, you can top off it, but make sure you change it as soon as it's due to maintain engine health.

2. Search for Discount Coupons

Many service centers give oil change offers Dubai, thus saving customers money without sacrificing quality. Hence, you can look up promotions for an oil change or discount coupons at local stores or online. However, you need to compare prices before scheduling.

3. Consider Synthetic Oil

Even though synthetic oil costs more at the pump, it pays for itself in the long run. It lasts longer, runs wonderfully in extreme temperatures, and provides excellent engine protection—reducing the number of oil changes needed and ultimately saving you money on future repairs.

4. Perform a DIY Oil Change

One of the easiest ways of saving money is to change your oil at home. With some equipment and a little direction, you can do the work yourself. Therefore, if you want to do this perfectly, you can check out the step-by-step guide in the next section.

DIY Oil Change: Steps to Save Money at Home

Oil changes at home are simpler than you might think and can save both time and money. With the right tools and guidance, it’s an easy way to maintain your car efficiently.

Just follow these simple steps to get it done easily.

  • Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Supplies

Before starting, make sure you have everything you need:

  1. Engine oil
  2. New oil filter
  3. Oil filter wrench.
  4. Socket wrench and oil drain pan.
  5. A car jack and jack stands.
  6. Funnel for pouring oil.
  7. Rags or paper towels for cleanup.
  8. Gloves to protect your hands.

Pro Tip: Prepare an empty container to put the used oil in for disposal.

  • Step 2: Lift and Secure the Car

Drive to a level surface and shut off the engine. Let a hot engine cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Once the engine has cooled, raise the front of the vehicle with a jack and block the frame with the jack for safety.

  • Step 3: Drain the Old Oil

Now, it's time to remove the old. So, place the oil collection pan strictly under the oil drain stop. Then loosen and remove the drain plug gently with the socket wrench to let the oil drain completely.  After that, clean the drain plug with a rag and screw it back into place firmly.

  • Step 4: Replace the Oil Filter

Loosen the old filter with a wrench and remove it. It's a good idea to have a catch pan in place because some oil might spill when you will remove it. So, take a little fresh oil and smear it onto the rubber gasket of your new filter before installation. This seals it right and comes off much easier next time.

  • Step 5: Add Fresh Oil (as per manual)

Check the owner's manual for how much oil to use before putting any in. Take the cap off the top of the engine, which houses the oil opening. Put the funnel into this opening, then slowly pour the new oil into it.

  • Step 6: Check the Oil Level and Any Leaks

Before closing, crank the engine and let it idle for 1-2 minutes. This allows the new oil to circulate. Now take out the dipstick, wipe clean, put it back and pull it out again to get the reading.

Lastly, check under the car for any leaks around the oil filter and drain plug. If you see oil dripping, tighten the parts as needed.

Conclusion

Following these easy tips and some DIY steps mentioned in the blog, one can easily save time and money while maintaining the perfect engine conditions. But if you seek reasonably priced service, look no further than Yalla Tyres.

For your car to be running as it should, we offer reliable and trusted auto maintenance which includes oil changes. Our experience in providing fast, convenient service with only quality products can make all the difference in saving you time and money from costly repairs.

Trust Yalla Tyres for unbeatable oil change prices that deliver quality and convenience at affordable prices.