5 Signs Your Nissan Needs an Oil Change—Don’t Ignore These Warnings!

Your Nissan is a powerhouse on the road, but without regular oil changes, even the most reliable engines can suffer.

Clean oil keeps your 2025 Nissan Rogue, Pathfinder, or Kicks running smoothly, maximizing performance and fuel efficiency.

Ignore the warning signs, and you could be looking at costly repairs down the line.

Wondering if it’s time for an oil change? Don’t wait until your engine starts begging for help. Here are five clear signs your Nissan needs fresh oil—before it’s too late.

If you notice any of these red flags, schedule a Nissan oil change appointment at M’Lady Nissan in Crystal Lake today. Our expert team is ready to keep your vehicle in top shape!

1. The Oil Change Light or Check Engine Light Turns On

When a warning light appears on your dashboard, it’s your Nissan’s way of telling you something is wrong.

If you see the oil change light or check engine light, don’t ignore it. Waiting too long could lead to engine damage, expensive repairs, or poor performance.

What These Lights Mean

• Oil Change Light – Your car’s system detects old, dirty, or low oil. It’s time for an oil change service.
• Check Engine Light – This could mean an oil issue, but it may also signal other problems. A professional check is needed.

Why You Should Act Fast

Driving with bad oil hurts your engine. It causes more friction, heat, and wear. Over time, this can lead to serious damage. Fresh oil keeps your engine clean and running at its best.

If you own a 2025 Nissan Rogue, Pathfinder, or Kicks, pay close attention to these warning signs.

Newer models have advanced sensors that detect oil issues early. Taking action quickly helps keep your vehicle in peak condition.

What to Do Next

1. Check Your Oil Level – Use the dipstick to see if the oil is low or dirty.
2. Schedule an Oil Change – Book a Nissan oil change appointment to prevent further issues.
3. Visit a Trusted Service Center – A Nissan dealership oil change ensures factory-trained technicians handle your car properly.

Regular maintenance is key to long engine life.

Don’t wait until problems get worse. Get a Nissan oil change service at M’Lady Nissan today.

Call us or schedule an appointment online for a Nissan oil change price that fits your budget!

2. Loud Engine Noise or Knocking Sounds

Your Nissan’s engine should run smoothly and quietly. If you hear loud ticking, knocking, or grinding sounds, it’s a sign of trouble.

Old or dirty oil can’t protect your engine the way it should. Without proper lubrication, metal parts rub together, causing more noise and wear.

Why Your Engine Sounds Louder Than Usual

• Ticking or Clicking – Happens when oil is too thin or dirty to coat moving parts.
• Knocking or Pinging – A sign that engine parts are hitting due to a lack of lubrication.
• Grinding – Can mean severe oil breakdown, leading to possible engine damage.

What Causes This Problem?

• Oil that is old, thick, or full of debris
• Low oil levels due to leaks or high mileage
• Skipping routine oil change service

If your 2025 Nissan Rogue, Pathfinder, or Kicks is making unusual noises, don’t wait. Ignoring the sounds can lead to costly repairs.

How to Fix It

1. Check your oil level – If it’s dark or low, it’s time for a change.
2. Schedule an appointment – A Nissan oil change service will restore smooth performance.
3. Visit a dealership – A Nissan dealership oil change ensures expert care.

Routine maintenance helps prevent engine wear and keeps your ride quiet.

Book a Nissan oil change appointment today at M’Lady Nissan for expert service at a Nissan oil change price that works for you!

3. Dark, Dirty, or Low Oil Levels

Clean oil is light in color and smooth in texture. Over time, it turns dark and thick as it collects dirt and debris.

If your oil is old or low, it won’t protect your engine properly. This can lead to overheating, poor performance, and costly repairs.

How to Check Your Oil

Checking your oil is quick and easy. Follow these steps:

1. Park on a level surface – Let the engine cool for a few minutes.
2. Find the dipstick – Pull it out and wipe it clean.
3. Reinsert and remove – Look at the color and level of the oil.
4. Check the texture – If it’s dark, gritty, or below the safe level, it’s time for an oil change.

Signs Your Oil Needs Changing

• Dark or Thick Oil – Fresh oil is amber-colored, while dirty oil is black and sludgy.
• Low Oil Level – If your dipstick shows low oil, your engine isn’t getting enough lubrication.
• Burning Smell – Old oil breaks down and can cause a burnt odor inside the cabin.

If your 2025 Nissan Rogue, Pathfinder, or Kicks has dirty or low oil, don’t wait. Ignoring it can lead to serious engine damage.

What to Do Next

• Top off if needed – Adding oil can help in an emergency, but it’s not a long-term fix.
• Schedule an oil change – A Nissan oil change service replaces old oil with fresh, high-quality lubricant.
• Visit a trusted service center – A Nissan dealership oil change ensures expert care and factory-approved products.

Keeping up with regular maintenance protects your engine and improves performance.

Book a Nissan oil change appointment at M’Lady Nissan today. We offer professional care at a Nissan oil change price that fits your budget!

4. Excessive Exhaust Smoke or Burning Oil Smell

Your Nissan’s exhaust should be light and barely visible. If you see thick smoke or smell burning oil, something is wrong.

These warning signs could mean an oil leak, engine trouble, or oil burning inside the engine.

What Different Smoke Colors Mean

• Blue smoke – Oil is leaking and burning inside the engine.
• White smoke – Could mean a coolant leak, but sometimes old oil is the problem.
• Black smoke – Your engine is burning too much fuel, often due to dirty oil or a clogged filter.

If you drive a 2025 Nissan Rogue, Pathfinder, or Kicks, pay attention to these signs.

Newer models are built to burn fuel cleanly. Any unusual smoke should be checked right away.

Why You Might Smell Burning Oil

• Oil is leaking onto hot engine parts – This creates a strong, unpleasant odor.
• Old oil is breaking down – Dirty oil can cause overheating and strange smells.
• Low oil levels – Without enough oil, engine parts rub together and overheat.

Ignoring these signs can lead to major engine damage. If you notice smoke or a burning smell, take action fast.

What to Do Next

• Check your oil level – If it’s low or dark, you need fresh oil.
• Schedule an oil change – A Nissan oil change service removes old oil and prevents further damage.
• Visit a professional – A Nissan dealership oil change ensures expert care with high-quality products.

Keep your engine running smoothly and safely. Book a Nissan oil change appointment at M’Lady Nissan today. We offer trusted service at a Nissan oil change price that fits your budget!

5. Declining Fuel Efficiency and Performance Issues

If your Nissan isn’t getting the mileage it used to, old oil could be the problem.

Fresh oil helps your engine run smoothly. When oil gets dirty, it thickens and creates friction. This forces the engine to work harder, burning more fuel and lowering efficiency.

Signs of Poor Performance

• Slower acceleration – Your car may feel sluggish when you press the gas.
• Rough idling – The engine may shake or feel unsteady when stopped.
• Lower fuel economy – You might notice more trips to the gas pump.
• Less power – The car may struggle on hills or when towing.

If your 2025 Nissan Rogue, Pathfinder, or Kicks is showing any of these signs, it’s time for a check-up. Clean oil keeps your engine running at its best.

What Causes These Issues?

• Old, thick oil – Dirty oil slows engine parts down, making the car less efficient.
• Low oil levels – Less oil means more friction, heat, and wear.
• Delayed maintenance – Skipping an oil change service can lead to long-term damage.

How to Fix It

• Check your oil – If it’s dark or low, your engine needs fresh oil.
• Schedule an oil change – A Nissan oil change service can restore performance.
• Get expert care – A Nissan dealership oil change ensures your vehicle gets the right oil and filter.

Don’t let bad oil hurt your engine or wallet. Book a Nissan oil change appointment at M’Lady Nissan today.

We offer trusted service at a Nissan oil change price that keeps your car running strong!

Keep Your Nissan Running at Its Best

Routine oil changes keep your engine strong, your ride smooth, and your fuel costs low. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to costly repairs.

If your car needs fresh oil, don’t wait—schedule an oil change today with the experts at M’Lady Nissan.

We proudly serve drivers in Crystal Lake, Ridgefield, and Oakwood Hills with fast, reliable service. Check out our oil change services for pricing and details.

Looking for a new ride? Explore our wide selection of 2025 Nissan Rogue, Pathfinder, and Kicks models.

Whether you need a fuel-efficient SUV or a family-friendly crossover, we have the perfect vehicle for you.

Want to make sure your Nissan stays in top shape? Learn about 9 signs your Nissan needs a new battery and when it’s time for a replacement.

Need help with your purchase? Our guide on financing your next Nissan breaks down everything you need to know.

If you’re ready to buy, check out how to get the best deal at M’Lady Nissan before you visit.

For expert care, great deals, and a hassle-free experience, contact M’Lady Nissan today. We’re here to help with all your car needs!