01 Aug Oil Life Monitoring Systems: How Do They Work?
Today’s vehicles are outfitted with more sensors and innovative technologies than ever before. From sensors for blind-spot monitoring systems to tire pressure monitoring sensors, modern vehicles make driving safer while making maintenance easier.
One technology that an increasing number of vehicles have these days is an oil life monitoring system. So, what exactly is this type of system and how does it work? Car owners should be aware so that they can get the most out of these features and take care of their vehicles.
How Do Oil Life Monitors Work?
The purpose of an oil life monitoring system is to let the driver know when the vehicle is nearly due for an oil change. However, some oil life monitors are a little more complex than others. A basic monitoring system will simply track the number of miles driven versus the oil change interval programmed into the car and set by the manufacturer. When the vehicle approaches that interval, a notification lets the driver know.
More complex oil life monitors, on the other hand, actually use sensors and other technology to track changes in oil conditions. This can let drivers know if the oil needs to be changed sooner than the “standard” interval set by the manufacturer.
Benefits of Oil Life Monitoring Systems
Convenience is the main advantage of using an oil life monitoring system on your car. Rather than trying to remember the last time you had an oil change (or relying on a sticker on your dashboard), an oil life monitoring system allows your car to track this for you.
These systems also tend to follow more realistic oil change intervals than the outdated 3,000-mile interval you’d see on an oil change sticker. As a result, you may be able to save money with less frequent oil changes. Meanwhile, the environment benefits from less oil waste while your car’s engine and moving parts remain properly lubricated.
Understanding Your Oil Life Monitor
Because oil life monitors can differ, it’s important to refer to your owner’s manual for more specific information on how yours works and how to maintain it. When you do have an oil change, you may need to reset your oil life monitor in order to clear the alert on your dashboard. If you have your oil changed at a shop, you can ask the mechanic to do this for you. Otherwise, you’ll need to do it yourself by following the instructions in your vehicle owner’s manual.
The Bottom Line
Oil life monitoring systems are just one more technology designed to make owning (or leasing) a car easier by letting you know when your car’s oil needs changed. And while oil life monitoring systems can work differently across various makes and models, the general function remains the same.
For more information on taking care of your car’s engine with the right oil, get in touch with Dave Consalvo today. As an authorized AMSOL dealer, he can recommend the oil that’s right for your vehicle.