Does Your Engine Oil Need to be Topped Up or Changed?
Does Your Engine Oil Need to be Topped Up or Changed?
When learning to care for your Kia, you’re likely to run into questions like, “What does that dashboard light mean?” or “How often should I get my engine checked?” As well, you’ll probably hear various myths both online and in your day-to-day, such as the common misconception that getting your engine oil checked and topping it off are the same thing. The team at North Edmonton Kia are always happy to answer your questions about automotive care and explain the importance of various vehicle components and maintenance, so in this blog, we’ll be laying out how oil top-ups and oil changes differ, and why both are crucial for prolonging your engine’s lifespan. Just keep reading to get informed!
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Oil Top-Up vs. Oil Change: What’s the Difference?
Though the differences might not seem that significant on the surface, asking for an oil top-up when your engine needs an oil change can impact its performance and overall lifespan. For instance, if your engine oil is old and in need of replacement, pouring fresh new oil on top won’t help; your new oil will just become contaminated and contribute to build up in your engine, leading to untimely (and expensive!) engine failure. This is inconvenient and expensive at best, but at worst can put you at risk of an accident if your vehicle breaks down unexpectedly.
Before you book your vehicle in with the automotive specialists at North Edmonton Kia, it’s important you know which service your Kia needs:
| Oil Top-Up | Oil Change |
| Adds fresh oil on top of existing oil. | Drains existing oil from your engine, replaces oil filters, and then adds fresh oil. |
| Should be performed approximately every 5,000 miles | Should be performed approximately every 10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first). |
How Often Should You Change or Top Up a Vehicle’s Oil?
For the most accurate idea of how often to change or top up your engine oil, make sure to consult your vehicle’s manual! When in doubt, it’s best to go by the manufacturer’s recommendations, as this will also protect your warranty.
Signs Your Engine Oil Needs Changing
You might be wondering how you’ll know whether your engine oil needs a top-up or replacing entirely. As it happens, there are signs that you can learn to identify by checking your oil regularly and staying on top of your maintenance schedule as laid out in your manufacturer’s guide.
To Check Your Oil:
- Your engine must be off and completely cool, so leave it to sit for a while if you’ve driven the vehicle recently.
- Remove your engine’s dipstick, locate the oil level marker, then wipe it clean.
- Give the dipstick another dip and check your oil level, colour, and scent.
If your oil is clear but has fallen below the minimum level marked on your dipstick, it’s time for an oil top-up. If your oil is murky or otherwise discoloured, smells sweet or like fuel, or has needed topping up more often than normal, then you’re in need of an oil change. We don’t recommend you try topping up or changing your oil at home, as even small spillages can cause fires or result in damage to your Kia’s components. Instead, book a service appointment and let our team take care of it!
Get Your Oil Topped Off or Changed at North Edmonton Kia
For all your engine oil needs, we recommend you get in touch with the specialists at North Edmonton Kia. Our technicians are Kia-certified, know what oil is right for your specific engine, and provide warranty-backed service that won’t leave you out of pocket in the event something goes wrong. Don’t worry; we’ll handle your Kia with the care it deserves and have you back on the road in no time!