We all know that we should change the oil in our cars and trucks every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Unfortunately, it’s sometimes not that simple. This is especially true if you can’t remember the last time you got the oil changed in your car or truck.

If this happens to you, here are some easy ways you can check to see if it’s time for an oil change.

Check The Dipstick

Open the hood of your car or truck and check the dipstick. Before checking the dipstick, be sure your car or truck is parked on level ground. This will help to ensure an accurate reading.

Once your car or truck is parked on level ground, open the hood and locate the dipstick. It is typically easy to locate. The dipstick typically has around handled and is typically orange or yellow. Here’s how to check the oil using the dipstick:

• Remove the dipstick and wipe clean with a rag or paper towel.
• Re-insert the dipstick. Make sure that the dipstick is placed all the way into the engine.
• Pull out the dipstick and look at it.

When you look at the dipstick, there should be two marking near the bottom. If there is oil between these two markings, it means your oil level is good. If the oil is below the lower marking, it means you need more oil.

Check The Color

As you check the level of oil in your car or truck using the dipstick, take a look at the color of the oil. If the oil on the dipstick is a light, honey color, it means the oil is clean. If it’s a dark, black-brown color, it means the oil is dirty and it’s time for an oil change.

Check The Warning Light

Some cars and trucks have warning lights that will alert you if oil levels are low. If your oil level light is on, you should immediately take your car or truck in for an oil change.

Following these tips will help you determine if it’s time for an oil change. As a rule of thumb, if you drive your car a lot and you can’t remember the last time you’ve taken your car or truck in for a Phoenix oil change or a Sacramento oil change, it probably means it’s overdue.