Getting an oil change is one of the most routine maintenance tasks for car owners. It’s essential for keeping your engine running smoothly, ensuring optimal performance, and prolonging the life of your vehicle. However, sometimes after an oil change, you might notice an unusual smell coming from your car. This can be concerning, leading you to wonder if something went wrong during the service and does oil smell after oil change. In this article, we’ll explore why oil might smell after an oil change, what could be causing it, and what you should do if you encounter this issue.

Why Does Oil Smell After an Oil Change?

It’s not uncommon for drivers to notice a burning or unusual smell after getting an oil change. While it might be alarming, it doesn’t necessarily indicate a serious problem. Several factors can contribute to this phenomenon, and understanding these causes can help put your mind at ease.

1. Spilled Oil on the Engine

One of the most common reasons for a burning oil smell after an oil change is spillage. During the oil change process, it’s possible for a small amount of oil to spill onto the engine or other hot components under the hood. When the engine heats up, the oil can burn off, causing a noticeable smell. This is usually harmless and should dissipate after a short period of driving as the oil burns away completely.

If the smell persists for longer than a few days or is particularly strong, it might indicate that a significant amount of oil was spilled, or that the spill occurred in an area where it’s not easily burned off. In such cases, it’s advisable to return to the service center and have them inspect the engine to ensure there are no leaks or residual oil causing the odor.

2. Residual Oil on the Exhaust Manifold

The exhaust manifold is another area where spilled oil can cause a smell after an oil change. The manifold gets extremely hot during operation, and any oil that comes into contact with it will burn off quickly, producing a distinctive odor. This is a relatively common occurrence, especially if the oil filter or drain plug is located near the exhaust manifold.

Again, this type of smell is typically temporary and should go away after a few trips. However, if the smell is persistent or you notice smoke along with the smell, it’s crucial to have your vehicle checked out to ensure there isn’t a more serious issue at play.

3. Oil Filter or Drain Plug Issues

Another possible cause of an oil smell after an oil change is an improperly installed oil filter or drain plug. If either of these components is not secured correctly, it can lead to oil leakage. Leaking oil can drip onto hot engine parts, causing a burning smell. Additionally, a loose oil filter or drain plug can lead to more significant problems, such as low oil levels, which can damage the engine.

If you suspect that the oil filter or drain plug was not installed correctly, it’s essential to have it checked immediately. Driving with a loose filter or plug can lead to oil starvation and severe engine damage, which could be costly to repair.

4. New Oil Characteristics

Sometimes, the smell after an oil change may simply be due to the characteristics of the new oil. Different brands and types of oil have varying chemical compositions, which can result in different smells, especially when the oil is new and fresh. This is generally not a cause for concern, and the smell should diminish as the oil circulates through the engine and breaks in.

If you’ve switched to a different brand or type of oil during your recent oil change, it’s possible that the new oil has a slightly different odor than what you’re used to. In most cases, this smell will fade after a few hundred miles of driving.

When Should You Be Concerned About an Oil Smell?

While many of the causes of an oil smell after an oil change are benign and temporary, there are situations where the smell could indicate a more serious issue. It’s important to be aware of the signs that something might be wrong so you can take action before any significant damage occurs.

1. Persistent Smell and Smoke

If the smell persists for more than a few days or if you notice smoke coming from under the hood, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible. Persistent smells and visible smoke could indicate a leak or other serious issue that needs immediate attention.

2. Oil Spots Under the Car

If you notice oil spots or puddles under your car after an oil change, it could be a sign of a leak. Leaks can occur if the oil filter, drain plug, or oil pan gasket is not properly sealed. Driving with an oil leak can lead to low oil levels and engine damage, so it’s important to address any leaks promptly.

3. Low Oil Levels

After an oil change, your oil levels should be topped off to the appropriate level. However, if you notice that your oil level is low shortly after the service, it could be a sign of a leak or that the service was not performed correctly. Low oil levels can cause significant engine damage, so it’s essential to check your oil levels regularly and address any discrepancies.

What to Do If You Notice an Oil Smell

If you notice an oil smell after an oil change, the first step is to monitor the situation. If the smell is mild and dissipates after a few drives, it’s likely just a small amount of spilled oil burning off. However, if the smell is strong, persistent, or accompanied by smoke, it’s important to take action.

1. Check for Oil Leaks

Start by checking under your car for any signs of oil leaks. Look for oil spots or puddles on the ground where your car is parked. You can also check under the hood for any visible signs of oil leakage around the engine, oil filter, or drain plug.

2. Inspect the Oil Filter and Drain Plug

If you suspect that the oil filter or drain plug might be loose, take your car back to the service center where the oil change was performed. Ask them to inspect the filter and plug to ensure they are properly tightened and that there are no leaks.

3. Consult a Professional

If you’re unable to determine the cause of the smell or if you’re concerned that something might be wrong, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic. They can perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle and identify any potential issues before they lead to more serious problems.

Conclusion

While it’s not uncommon to notice an oil smell after an oil change, it’s important to understand the potential causes and when to be concerned. In many cases, the smell is simply the result of a small amount of spilled oil burning off, which should go away after a few drives. However, if the smell persists, is accompanied by smoke, or if you notice oil leaks, a professional must inspect your vehicle.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes, is essential for keeping your car running smoothly and preventing costly repairs down the road. By staying vigilant and addressing any issues promptly, you can ensure that your vehicle remains in top condition and continues to perform at its best. We hope this helps you understand does oil smell after oil change.