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How does engine oil get dirty?
My mom was showing me how to change my car’s oil and told me I let it get too dirty. How does engine oil get dirty? Is it bad when it does?
Melanie Mergen · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
It’s awesome that you can have your mom’s help to change your oil! As your car’s oil circulates through the engine to help keep things running smoothly, it will inevitably collect particles like ash or carbon from combustion, making it “dirty” as it accumulates all that material.
The oil filter will help keep some of that at bay for a while, but it’s common for
engine oil
to get dirty over time—that’s one of the reasons regular oil changes are essential. Otherwise, dirty engine oil will take a toll on your engine, increase sludge buildup, and affect your vehicle’s overall performance.Fresh
oil
is light brown, and will turn a darker brown or even black as it gets dirtier over time. When your oil approaches that color, it’s probably time to change your car’s oil.Hope this helps! While you look after your car, it’s a good idea to make sure your
car insurance
policy is taken care of too. The Jerry
app can help you do just that!All you have to do is download the app, answer a few questions, and then, you can start comparing car insurance quotes from top providers, all in one spot. From there you can look through coverage options and rates, then pick the best option for you.
Getting started takes less than a minute, and the average Jerry user saves $887 per year!
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- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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