What does Change Engine Oil Soon mean?
When the “Change Engine Oil Soon” message appears, it means that the vehicle requires an oil change promptly, ideally within the next 600 miles.
In optimal driving conditions, the Engine Oil Life System may not signal the need for vehicle servicing for over a year
Source: (rxmechanic)
What Steps to Take When You Receive the “Change Engine Oil Soon” Notification
Fortunately, the “Change Engine Oil Soon” warning message doesn’t indicate any underlying engine problems, and the solution is not costly.
It’s a straightforward fix. When you see this message on your DIC, don’t worry. Follow these steps to address it:
- Replace your old motor oil with the recommended oil from the manufacturer and a high-quality oil filter. This step is crucial because a subpar oil filter can lead to problems like oil leaks, dark exhaust smoke, unusual metallic noises, or increased fuel consumption.
- Using low-quality engine oil can also result in higher fuel consumption and expensive engine repair bills. After changing the oil and filter according to the manufacturer’s specifications, proceed to reset the “Change Engine Oil Soon” message:
- Turn the car to the ON position.
- Press the vehicle DIC menu button to access car information.
- Use the up or down button to check the remaining motor oil life.
- Press the clear/set button until you see “100%” or “fully reset,” depending on your vehicle’s make and model.
- Turn the key back to the OFF position
Source: (i.ytimg)
Frequently asked Questions
Q: How long can I drive with the “Change Oil Soon” message? One of the common queries I encounter in my garage is, “I have a ‘Change Engine Oil Soon’ message; how far can I continue driving?” I wouldn’t advise prolonged driving once this warning appears. However, when you see the “Change Motor Oil Soon” message on your driver’s information center, it’s best not to drive beyond 500 miles or two weeks.
Q: Is it acceptable to change the engine oil early? Experts recommend changing your motor oil at least twice a year or every 5,000 miles. Going beyond this interval may hasten engine wear and tear.
Q: What happens if you don’t change your oil promptly? Every driver and car enthusiast understands that driving without sufficient motor oil will result in severe engine damage.
Q: What if you change the oil too soon? Changing engine oil prematurely won’t enhance your car’s performance. It won’t harm it either, but it involves unnecessary expenses, time, and effort.
Q: Can I top up oil until I get an oil change? If your oil level falls below the recommended mark, you can add extra oil. Ensure you use the manufacturer’s specified oil or oil with the same viscosity.
Q: Can you wait 2 years between oil changes? Manufacturers typically recommend changing engine oil every 3 months or 3,000 miles for older engines. However, due to advancements in engine technology, it’s generally acceptable to extend oil changes to between 7,500 and 10,000 miles or once a year, depending on what comes first.
Closing Remarks
Although receiving a “Change Engine Oil Soon” alert on your Ford or any vehicle brand won’t result in immediate damage within the initial two weeks, it’s important not to overlook it.
Ignoring this warning message for an extended period can lead to the motor oil losing its viscosity and lubrication capabilities