Jakarta (ANTARA) – Motorcycle owners need to know when their motorcycle oil has run out or its quality has deteriorated so they can replace it immediately. Delays can cause rapid engine wear, overheating and even permanent damage. Engine oil has three important functions, namely lubricating, cleaning and cooling the engine.
However, with use, the oil will degrade and lose its effectiveness. Therefore, regular oil changes are very important to maintain engine performance and life. The following are signs that your oil is running low and needs to be replaced immediately.
Read also: The fatal impact of fake oil on motorcycles: know the characteristics and solutions to overcome it
Signs that engine oil is running low and needs to be replaced
1. The color of the oil becomes dark or black
New oil is golden yellow in color, but over time it turns dark black due to dirt and combustion residues mixed with it.
2. Abnormal consistency
Oil that has exceeded its useful life can become very thin or too thick, sometimes tastes like mud and contains metal particles or sand, indicating contamination.
3. Oil volume decreases
Oil reduces due to burns or leaks. If the oil level on the dipstick is below the minimum level, it means that the oil is running low and lubrication is not optimal.
4. Erratic engine sound and reduced performance
Without sufficient lubrication, friction between components causes the engine to make harsh noises, slow acceleration, and make the engine more difficult to start.
Read also: Five negative effects of overfilling with oil
5. The exhaust emits a lot of smoke
Bluish-white smoke indicates that oil has entered the combustion chamber and is burning along with the fuel, a sign that the oil volume is running low or the gasket is leaking.
6. Excessive fuel consumption
Ineffective oil makes the engine work harder, so the motorcycle becomes more expensive.
7. Mileage and usage time exceed recommendations
Manufacturers recommend changing the oil every 3,000–5,000 km or every 2–4 months, depending on the type of motorcycle. Exceeding this number may increase the risk of damage.
Regular oil changes are an important form of maintenance that prevents engine damage and prolongs the life of your motorcycle. This maintenance also ensures that the vehicle’s performance remains optimal even when used daily.
If you find any of the above signs, you should change your oil immediately. Use products according to manufacturer recommendations and regularly pay attention to oil volume and quality to keep your engine durable, according to a number of sources.
Read also: It is important to maintain engine condition before driving long distances
Reporter: M. Hilal Eka Saputra Harahap
Publisher: Suryanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2025