I own a 2001 Saturn LW200. There is lamp that indicate the moment to change oil. I ask to the dealer how the system decide that it is time to change oil. He didn't really knows. Sometimes the sign is on a long time before the usual 5000km (and the reset was well done).
I make my changing oil every 5000 km without take care of the lamp but I would like to know how the system estimate it is time to change oil.
Just for my curiosity.
Thank you !
S.B.
To answer both posts (same question really):
The oil change monitor checks the viscosity and level vs how many cold starts your engine has since the last time the reset button was pressed. Unfortunatelly, dirt and engine deposits will always be there, so longer than 3 months or 3000 miles and you pose a risk of excessive wear and tesr on your engine. Also, (in my experience) some mechanics are in a rush and forget to reset the oil monitor button so the light wont come on in time.
30/3K rule of thumb, no matter what and youll have a happy engine.Heres the good news, unlike some cars out there, you wont void your warranty by taking your car wherever for an oil change. On occasion and if you ask, a nice service writer might have discount coupons that he/she can apply towards you next oil change and save you $$.
marx404
marx404
see
I'm not sure about the Saturn, but he Ford system counts engine revolutions. Every so many revolutions (regardless of mileage) the "change oil soon" notification comes up. It is user resettable.
look I would say if you want to run your car till five thousand miles till you change the oil just reset the light there are many ways this is done depending on the vehicle 1. There is the reset switch under the hood or 2 you turn the key to the on posistion and hit the gas peddle three time within 5 seconds (dont hit it too fast or it won't work) the light will blink then turn the key off then start. or 3 this goes for alot of honda s turn the key off hold the reset switch or mileage reset switch then turn the key on and hold the switch till the light goes out then turn key off then start.
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