Dutch Miller's Beckley Automall

Feb 7, 2025
A GMC vehicle parked on a residential street.

Getting routine maintenance from your GMC dealership is a sure way to keep your car trouble-free. Keeping on top of your oil change schedule should be one of your priorities regarding maintenance, as it keeps your engine lubricated and prevents premature wear and tear.

6 Your GMC Needs an Oil Change from Your GMC Dealership

1. Your Car Tells You It’s Time

Modern cars are great at letting you know when it’s time for fresh oil. There’s an Oil Life Monitor in the vehicle that’ll let you know when your oil needs to be replaced based on a series of factors, such as the engine’s temperatures over time, engine speeds, and vehicle load.

This monitor doesn’t tell you when your oil is running low, though, so you’ll need to check that manually. You need to visit the dealer for a top-up if you notice the level is low.


2. You Have Worse Fuel Economy

If your fuel economy is worsening, then you need to head to the dealer to see what’s wrong. Reduced fuel economy can indicate many issues, including low-quality oil or a low oil level.


3. Your Car Gets Loud

Cars run quietly in motion, so hearing noises that don’t usually happen tells you something unusual is going on. You may hear increased engine sounds, knocking, or rumbling when the oil level is low, as the engine’s parts are grinding together without lubrication.


4. Your Engine Stalls

A car that’s working normally should easily get you from one place to another with no stalling at any point throughout the journey. If your engine seizes up at any point on the trip, then head to the dealer. You might need new oil.


5. Your Exhaust Fumes Are Dark

You generally shouldn’t be able to see your vehicle’s exhaust fumes. If they become dark and easily visible, then your car needs maintenance. Sometimes getting fresh motor oil is enough to fix the problem.


6. You Struggle to Shift Gears

Struggling to shift gears is often associated with transmission trouble, but it can also let you know it’s time for new oil. A clogged oil filter can make it harder to shift gears, too. If your filter is dirty, then your oil probably needs changing, too.

Visit Dutch Miller’s Beckley Automall in Beckley, WV, next time you need a fresh fill of motor oil. Head to our website or call 304-250-4617 to schedule your appointment.