A motorcycle’s engine is the heart of the vehicle and runs on fuel. But beyond that, it requires engine oil, which lubricates and allows the many internal components to run smoothly without bumping into each other. Engine oil ensures the operation of the internal components without developing easy wear. It is therefore essential to check engine oil levels regularly. It is also important to keep your motorcycle engine in good spirits by using the correct oil and checking that the oil inside the engine is in good condition.
It won’t last forever, even if you fill the engine with new engine oil. Over time, engine oil becomes dirty and loses its chemical properties, making it less effective for the power-generating machine. It can happen depending on the nature of the motorcycle, engine workload, etc. However, there are some signs that tell you when you should change your engine oil.
Also read: How to know when your motorcycle needs an oil change
Here are the four key signs that tell a motorist to change their engine oil.
The engine makes more noise than usual
If the engine makes a louder noise than usual, it may be a sign that your motorcycle engine needs an oil change. Fresh oil provides a protective layer between the metal components inside the engine block. However, over time, this oil loses its capacity, and soon after, you start to hear the metal rubbing against it, which makes a louder than usual noise.
Check the oil if it is black and grainy
Some motorcycles come with a dipstick, just like cars, while others come with a window to check the oil level. Either way, you can check the color of the engine oil. Fresh oil is translucent light brown in color, but turns black and thicker over time. You can check the thickness of the oil by taking some on your finger and rubbing it with another finger. If the oil is not smooth and feels full of grit or particles, be sure that it has become contaminated and needs to be changed soon.
Oil level below minimum mark
There is a small window for checking the engine oil level that is placed on the side of the engine block. If you see that the engine oil level is below the minimum mark in the window, it is time to change the engine oil.
Dashboard warning lights that alert you
Modern motorcycle engines come equipped with sensors that can tell you, through lights displayed on your motorcycle’s instrument panel, that you don’t have enough oil in your engine. In this case, it’s time to change the engine oil.
How to know when your motorcycle needs an engine oil change
The engine makes more noise than usual
Check the oil if it is black and grainy
Oil level below minimum mark
Dashboard warning lights that alert you
Date of first publication: March 30, 2023, 4:15 PM IST
