An oil change is a routine maintenance procedure that involves draining the old, used oil from your car’s engine and replacing it with fresh, clean oil. This process is crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Over time, engine oil becomes contaminated with dirt, debris, and combustion by-products, which can lead to increased friction and wear on engine components. By regularly changing the oil, you ensure that your engine remains properly lubricated, reducing friction and heat buildup, and extending the life of your vehicle.
You need to make sure that your car’s oil is at the correct level and in good condition to maintain optimal engine performance and longevity. Regularly checking the oil level using the dipstick and monitoring its appearance and color will help you identify when it’s time for an oil change. It’s important not to ignore signs that indicate the need for an oil change, such as dark or gritty oil, engine noises, or warning lights on your dashboard. Keeping up with oil changes according to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations will help prevent costly engine repairs and keep your car running smoothly for years to come.
An oil change is usually done by experienced automotive technicians at service centers or automotive shops. During the oil change procedure, the technician drains the old, used oil from the engine, removes and replaces the oil filter to ensure optimal filtration of contaminants, then refills the engine with the precise type and quantity of fresh oil recommended for your vehicle. This maintenance procedure must be done by professionals because using the correct oil helps maintain engine performance and longevity.
Photo by Daniel Andraski/Pexels.com
Professional oil changes also involve a comprehensive inspection of the oil system. Technicians will carefully examine for any signs of leaks, damage, or other issues related to the oil. Detecting and addressing these problems early can prevent more significant engine issues down the road. Entrusting your oil change to skilled professionals ensures that the procedure is conducted accurately and efficiently, giving you peace of mind knowing that your car’s engine is properly lubricated and protected. Additionally, service centers often keep records of your oil change intervals, helping you stay on top of your vehicle’s maintenance schedule for optimal performance and reliability.
20 Signs that Your Car Needs an Oil Change
So, how can you tell if it’s time to get an oil change? Well, you simply need to listen to what your car is trying to tell you. Keeping track of your vehicle’s maintenance needs can save you from costly repairs down the road, as one of the most critical aspects of car care is ensuring that your engine oil is clean and at the right level.
Here are some signs that it might be time for an oil change:
1. Engine Noises
If you hear knocking or rumbling sounds coming from your engine, it could indicate that the oil is not properly lubricating the moving parts.
2. Exhaust Smoke
Excessive smoke from your exhaust, especially if it’s blue or gray, might signal burning oil due to low levels or poor quality.
3. Low Oil Level
Check your oil dipstick regularly. A low oil level means it’s time to top up or change the oil.
4. Check Engine Light
This light can indicate various issues, including low oil pressure or degraded oil quality.
5. Dark and Dirty Oil
Healthy oil should be amber-colored and relatively clean. If it’s dark and gritty, it’s overdue for a change.
6. Overheating
Insufficient or old oil can’t effectively dissipate heat, leading to engine overheating.
7. Shaking While Idling
If your car shakes or vibrates while idling, it could be a sign of poor lubrication.
8. Warning Lights
Aside from the check engine light, other warning lights like the oil pressure warning could indicate oil-related issues.
9. Gritty Oil
Rub some oil between your fingers—if it feels gritty, it’s likely contaminated with dirt and debris.
10. Oil Life Indicator
Modern vehicles have oil life monitors that alert you when it’s time for an oil change. Pay attention to these warnings.
11. Change Oil Promptly
Don’t delay changing your oil beyond the recommended interval.
12. Burning Smell
The smell of burnt oil inside or outside the car could mean oil is leaking onto hot engine parts.
13. Car Stalling
Insufficient lubrication can cause engine components to seize up, leading to stalling.
14. Color of Oil
Healthy oil is amber; if it’s dark brown or black, it’s time for a change.
15. Odor Inside the Car
A persistent oil smell inside the cabin could indicate a leak or spill.
16. Excess Exhaust
Blue smoke in your exhaust is a classic sign of burning oil.
17. Ticking Sounds When Starting
This could be due to oil not properly lubricating the engine components.
18. Dark Oil
The color of your oil can tell you a lot about its health. Dark oil needs replacing.
19. Loud Engine Noise
Unusual engine noise, especially when accelerating, could be due to inadequate lubrication.
20. Decreased Performance
If your car feels sluggish or less responsive than usual, check the oil.
Oil Change Safety Tips
To maintain your car’s health and safety on the road:
Check for Leaks Regularly: Keep an eye out for oil spots under your parked car.
Follow Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Adhere to the oil change interval suggested in your vehicle’s manual.
Inspect Other Fluids: Don’t forget to check other fluids like steering oil and gear oil.
Video: What happens if You Forget to Get to Get Your Oil Changed
For more information about the consequences of failing to get an oil change on time, you may check out this video from Engineering Explained.
Summary
Keeping your car’s oil fresh and at the proper level is crucial for the longevity of your engine. Regular oil changes can prevent costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly. Pay attention to these signs, and don’t hesitate to schedule an oil change when needed. Your car will thank you for it!
Making a right turn is a routine maneuver that requires attention to detail to ensure safety on the road. In addition to following basic traffic rules like signaling in advance and checking for oncoming traffic, it’s crucial to understand the guidelines set by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in an attempt to prevent accidents and maintain order at intersections.
There are also certain rules for making right turns. Ignoring these rules can lead to accidents or even citation tickets and fines. Therefore, it’s essential to stay informed about traffic laws and be a defensive driver, not only to protect yourself and others on the road but also to avoid unnecessary penalties and legal consequences associated with improper maneuvers. To be able to make right turns properly, we listed the guidelines on how to do so, as suggested by the LTO.
Making a right turn is a fundamental driving maneuver that involves turning your vehicle to the right at an intersection or onto another road. It’s important because proper execution ensures smooth traffic flow and minimizes the risk of accidents. When making a right turn, you must consider various factors such as signaling early, checking for oncoming traffic, and positioning your vehicle correctly within the lane.
The importance of making a right turn correctly extends beyond just following traffic rules—it contributes to overall road safety. By executing this maneuver safely and responsibly, you reduce the likelihood of collisions with pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Additionally, understanding the guidelines set by transportation authorities like the LTO and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on how to execute this type of maneuver helps ensure that everyone on the road with you can commute efficiently and without unnecessary risks.
How to Make a Right Turn Properly and Safely
Making a right turn might seem easy and straightforward enough to execute properly, but not everyone actually does. Maybe it’s due to ignorance or blatant neglect for the rules, but disregarding the proper guidelines on how to execute a right turn properly means inviting trouble and accidents. Whether you’re a new driver or a veteran who just needs a refresher, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a right turn properly and safely.
Step 1. Positioning
Lane Placement: Approach the intersection in the extreme right lane that allows right turns. Plan this well in advance to avoid last-minute lane changes.
Signal Early: Use your turn signal at least 30 meters before the turn to indicate your intention to other drivers.
Step 2. Checking Traffic
Left and Rear: Before initiating the turn, check for traffic approaching from the left to ensure there’s no oncoming vehicle or pedestrian.
Mirrors: Use your mirrors to be aware of surrounding traffic, including bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrians.
Step 3. Approach the Turn
Positioning: As you prepare to turn, keep your vehicle close to the curb or the edge of the road.
Wheel Placement: Keep your front wheels close to the center line when curving right. This prevents the rear wheels from drifting off the pavement and maintains a safe turning radius.
Step 4. Waiting for a Safe Gap
Observation: Wait for a safe gap in oncoming traffic. Be cautious of cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users.
Avoid Cutting Corners: Ensure you complete the turn without encroaching into other lanes or cutting the corner.
Step 5. Watch Out for Traffic Signals and Other Signs
Right Turn on Red
Solid Red Light: You may turn right on a solid red light after coming to a complete stop, if there’s no signage prohibiting the turn.
Lane Discipline: Ensure you are in the correct lane designated for right turns before approaching the intersection. Vehicles in the inner lane should not attempt a right turn.
Red Arrow Lights
Prohibited Turns: Do not turn against a red arrow light. Respect the signal and wait for a green arrow or a clear indication to proceed.
Step 7. Follow the Signs and Signals
Compliance: Pay attention to signs prohibiting right turns on red lights. Always adhere to traffic regulations and signage.
Step 8. Make a Right Turn
Execute the Maneuver: At the turn position, keep your vehicle close to the curb or edge of the highway then make a right turn.
Make Sure Your Wheels are in the Right Directions: Curving left keeps your front wheels closer to the right edge which prevents the rear wheels from drifting into the other lane.
Safety Tips When Making a Right Turn
To stay safe while making a right turn, follow these important tips:
Signal Early: Use your turn signal at least 30 meters before the turn to notify other drivers of your intention.
Check for Oncoming Traffic: Look left and assess the flow of traffic before initiating the turn to ensure there’s no oncoming vehicle or pedestrian.
Position Your Vehicle Correctly: Keep your vehicle close to the curb or edge of the road while approaching the turn to maintain a safe turning radius.
Observe Right-of-Way: Yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles as necessary before making the turn.
Maintain a Safe Speed: Reduce your speed as you approach the intersection to allow for better control and reaction time.
Avoid Cutting Corners: Complete the turn without encroaching into other lanes or crossing over curbs.
Check Blind Spots: Use your mirrors and check blind spots to ensure no vehicles or cyclists are in your path.
Be Aware of Traffic Signals: Respect traffic lights and signs governing right turns, including red lights and dedicated right-turn arrows.
Use Caution at Complex Intersections: Exercise extra caution at intersections with multiple lanes or heavy traffic.
Stay Patient: Wait for a safe gap in oncoming traffic before proceeding with the turn.
Visibility: Check blind spots and mirrors before turning to avoid any surprises.
Yielding: Yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles as necessary.
Defensive Driving: Be mindful of large vehicles that might obstruct your view and wait for a clear path.
By following these safety measures, you can make right turns confidently and reduce the risk of accidents or violations on the road at all times.
Video: How to Make a Right Turn Properly (For New Drivers)
For more information on how to make a right turn, you may check out this video guide from Drivers Ed Direct Driving School:
Summary
Mastering the art of making a right turn is essential for safe and efficient driving. Remember, driving is not just about reaching your destination—it’s about ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. So, next time you approach a right turn, keep these tips in mind to make your maneuver smooth, safe, and stress-free.
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Legazpi City, Albay is made up of six (6) different LTO offices: the LTO Regional Office – Operations Division, LTO Regional Office – New Registration Unit (NRU), LTO Iloilo City District Office (DO), LTO Iloilo Licensing Center (LC), LTO Iloilo Driver’s License Renewal Center (DLRC) and Festive Walk Mall Megaworld Drivers’ License Renewal Center (DLRC). These LTO offices serve both the locals and the visitors of the City of Iloilo, in an effort to make LTO operations easily accessible in the city and within its geographical area of responsibility (GAOR). With these agencies in place, the LTO strives to be more effective and to bring their operations closer to those with LTO-related needs.
As the city referred to as The Heart of the Philippines, Iloilo City has long enjoyed its geographical placement in the middle of the country. It has historical landmarks, quaint beaches and islands, heritage homes, plus tasty and unique cuisine and is well-known as the “Most Loyal and Noble City ” for its loyalty to the Spanish crown for a long time. Thanks to the city’s geographical placement and its potential as a great place for business and pleasure combined, it has long become a favored spot in the region, both by private corporations and government agencies like the LTO to be the center of their regional operations in these parts.
LTO Iloilo refers to the LTO offices stationed in Iloilo City in the province of Iloilo: the LTO Regional Office – Operations Division, LTO Regional Office – New Registration Unit (NRU), LTO Iloilo City District Office (DO), LTO Iloilo Licensing Center (LC), LTO Iloilo Driver’s License Renewal Center (DLRC) and Festive Walk Mall Megaworld Drivers’ License Renewal Center (DLRC).. These LTO agencies in Iloilo City were meant to be the local operating arm of the LTO central office. They are meant to realize and carry out the agency’s efforts in bridging the LTO programs with the transacting public—including the drivers, car owners, and operators—in the city and its neighboring areas. These agencies also offer the core programs—including the registration and renewal of motor vehicles (MV) and license and permits—so the LTO services would be more convenient and easier to avail of, especially for the people who work behind the wheels or those who can’t afford to travel to another place for their LTO-related needs. The LTO Iloilo offices are also created to serve as a visual reminder to the public that the agency is watching over Iloilo City, and that they need ro be vigilant with their responsibility towards road safety.
LTO Regional Office – Operations Division
Aside from the regional office, Iloilo City also houses the LTO Regional Operations Division of the region. This division is located within the LTO Regional Office in Jaro, Iloilo City, where it serves as the LTO’s project implementing entity. It oversees and manages the agency’s operations, as well as the implementation and delivery of the different LTO services and regulatory policies through the various LTO branch offices in the region, in an effort to keep the roads safe for both drivers and pedestrians.
LTO Regional Office – New Registration Unit (NRU)
Just like the LTO regional operations division, the LTO has a new registration unit (NRU) in the city. This NRU is housed at the LTO regional office for Region 6. This office is housed in Brgy. Quintin Salas, Jaro, Iloilo Citys, Legazpi City, Albay and is in charge of all the new motor vehicle (MV) registrations and confirmation and related miscellaneous transactions in the province.
LTO Iloilo City District Office (DO)
The LTO Iloilo City District Office is a dedicated LTO branch office in Iloilo City where drivers, car owners, and even operators can get their LTO-related needs addressed. As one of the offices intended to extend the operations of the agency in the local area of Iloilo City, the LTO Iloilo district office serves as the agency’s primary operating arm in the local area, offering the agency’s core programs and services and engaging the locals to help carry out their mandate in the surrounding communities and beyond.
Iloilo Licensing Center
With convenience and ease of transaction in mind, the LTO also set up the LTO Iloilo Licensing Center (LC), a one-stop off-site printing shop for LTO licensing needs in Iloilo City. Located along a busy spot in Brgy. Quintin Salas, Jaro, Iloilo City, the LTO Iloilo Licensing Center is in close proximity to numerous public and private establishments in the city. This LTO office has good visibility, which puts it right within the reach of the people they intend to serve. having said that, if, in the future, you find yourself needing to deal with an LTO office for faster and more convenient licensing services while in Iloilo City, then this is the way to be—visit the LTO Iloilo Licensing Center.
Iloilo Drivers’ License Renewal Center
The LTO Iloilo Driver’s License Renewal Center (DLRC), as the name suggests, is a dedicated license renewal center in the city of Iloilo. It is one of the operating arms of LTO in the City which serves the people by offering faster, better, more convenient, and more affordable license renewal services to the people of Iloilo City, especially those who frequently visit the Robinsons Place Iloilo City. So, if you ever find yourself needing to deal with an LTO office for licensing renewal services while in Iloilo City, then you can head on to the Robinsons Place Iloilo to visit this LTO DLRO.
Festive Walk Mall Megaworld Drivers’ License Renewal Center
Located in Festive Mall Megaworld in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, the Festive Walk Mall Megaworld LTO DLRC is in a prime spot, making it accessible to the public while in close proximity to a wide array of local and international retail brands, shopping and lifestyle centers, supermarket, food courts and themed-restaurants. This location directly putting the agency within their customer’s reach. So, if you are in or near Mandurriao in Iloilo City and you have LTO-related business like license renewals, you can easily go and look for this office and still enjoy the other things offered by the mall itself.
List of Services Offered by LTO Iloilo
If, one day, you find yourself in need of any LTO-related services while in Iloilo City, then you can simply visit any of the LTO offices in the area. Like the other LTO offices, the frontline agencies in the city offer fast and efficient services in prime office locations to ensure convenience.
Some of the most common services offered by the LTO, include:
Plain or Advance Renewal of Driver’s/Conductor’s License and Renewal of Driver’s License of Filipino Living Abroad
Miscellaneous License Transactions
Renewal of Driver’s / Conductor’s License with Examination [Expired for more than two (2) years] and/or with ten (10) or more but less than forty (40) Demerit Points
Change Classification from Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) Code to Professional Driver’s License Code with Same Driver’s License (PDL) Code
Additional Driver’s License Code/s
Conversion of Foreign Driver’s License to Philippine Driver’s License Including Renewal of Expired Philippine Driver’s License with a Valid Foreign Driver’s License
Change Classification from Professional Driver’s License (PDL) Code to Non-Professional Driver’s License Code (NPDL), Dropping of DL Code and Change Clutch Type
Request for System Updates (RSU) for Double License
Request for System Update (RSU) for License and Customer Details/Misrepresentation of Age/Identity
Certification of No Pending Apprehension and Alarm
Collection of fees from law enforcement violations
Drug testing
Emission testing
Inventory of Plates
Issuance of Vanity License Plates
Issuance of Special Plates
The use of self-service kiosks
Process Application for New Driver’s License (DL) via the Automated Driver’s License Examination System (ADLES) Facility
Because not all LTO offices are created equal, some agencies may not be equipped enough to offer the full range of LTO services. That said, it’s best to check with the specific LTO branch first if the service you need is available before you make an actual trip.
How to Contact LTO Iloilo
Reaching out to the LTO Iloilo simply involves making a call, sending an email, or sending a message via social media. It can be done either by reaching out to any of the LTO Iloilo branch offices or to the LTO Region 6 (Western Visayas Region) regional office.
To reach the LTO Region 6 (Western Visayas) regional office, please check the following contact information:
Land Transportation Office Region 6 – Office of the Regional Director
Agency Code: 0600 Office Address: Brgy. Quintin Salas, Jaro, Iloilo City Telephone Number: (033) 326 2482 Head of Agency: Eric Lenard E. Tabaldo, CESO IV Email Address: ltoregionvi@yahoo.com.ph Operating Hours: 8AM – 5PM (Mondays-Fridays)
Contact Information
To reach out to the LTO Iloilo, please check out the contact information below:
LTO Regional Office – Operations Division
Agency Code: 0600 Office Address: Brgy. Quintin Salas, Jaro, Iloilo City Telephone Number: (033) 337 2427 Head of Agency: Atty. Allan D. Sacramento Email Address: ad_sacramento@yahoo.com Operational Hours: 8AM – 5PM (Mondays to Fridays)
LTO Regional Office – New Registration Unit (NRU)
Agency Code: 0601 Office Address: Brgy. Quintin Salas, Jaro, Iloilo City Telephone Number: +639 9193962726 Head of Agency: Francis L. Hortillas Email Address: fjrhortillas@gmail.com Operational Hours: 8AM – 5PM (Mondays to Fridays)
LTO Iloilo City District Office (DO)
Agency Code: 0620 Office Address: Brgy. Quintin Salas, Jaro, Iloilo City Telephone Number: +639 9155966515 Head of Agency: Jose A. Degollado, Jr. Email Address: degolladojun@gmail.com Operational Hours: 8AM – 5PM (Mondays to Fridays)
Iloilo Licensing Center
Agency Code: 0624 Office Address: Brgy. Quintin Salas, Jaro, Iloilo City Telephone Number: +639 173080858 Head of Agency: Ma. Charito A. Sarza Email Address: chaguilas@yahoo.com Operational Hours: 8AM – 5PM (Mondays to Fridays)
Iloilo Drivers’ License Renewal Center
Agency Code: 0626 Office Address: Robinsons Place Iloilo City Telephone Number: +639 687345741 Head of Agency: Marie Jane L. Roa Email Address: roa02@gmail.com Operational Hours: 10AM – 5PM (Mondays to Fridays)
Festive Walk Mall Megaworld Drivers’ License Renewal Center
Agency Code: 0627 Office Address: Festive Mall Megaworld, Mandurriao, Iloilo City Telephone Number: +639 171525756 Head of Agency: Mary Ann E. Escabilla Email Address: dlrofestivemalliloilo@gmail.com Operational Hours: 10AM – 6PM (Mondays to Fridays)
Where is Iloilo City
Iloilo City, officially known as the City of Iloilo, is a 1st class highly urbanized city (HUC) in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines on the island of Panay. It serves as the capital city of the province of Iloilo, and it was blessed with excellent geographical setting and urban planning, making it one of the most livable cities in the country with an economic boom. It also serves as the regional hub of education, culinary, religion, healthcare, tourism, culture, industry and economy of Western Visayas and is fast becoming one of the medical tourism hubs in the Philippines. The city’s modern-day appearance is shaped by the key role it has played as a trading hub for centuries.
Geographically, the city of Iloilo sits at the heart of the Philippines, at the center of the Iloilo–Guimaras Metropolitan Area, as well as the regional center and primate city of the Western Visayas region. It is surrounded with water features such as rivers and is bounded by a sea; and it spreads out in a plain land in the south eastern side of Panay Island. It is bounded in the south east side by Iloilo-Guimaras Strait and Guimaras Island which makes the city a natural harbor for ships. The two main rivers of Iloilo and Batiano snakes through the city and empties out of the Iloilo-Guimaras Strait.
Google Map Location
Finding transportation is fairly easy in the city of Iloilo as it is served mostly by passenger jeepneys, white metered taxis, and tricycles within the city limits. Though the jeepneys usually have fixed routes and mostly travel on the city’s major and secondary roads as the main mode of transportation to Metropolitan Iloilo areas, the tricycles in the area can take you around most secondary roads and city communities. There are also buses linking Iloilo City to the rest of the province and the island of Panay, as well as to Metro Manila, Mindoro, Batangas, Cebu, Negros and Mindanao via the Roll-on, Roll-off integrated ferry services of the Strong Republic Nautical Highway (SRNH).
Of course, driving around is also an option so if you need directions to Iloilo City or any of the LTO offices in the city, you may check out the maps below:
LTO Regional Office – Operations Division
LTO Regional Office – New Registration Unit (NRU)
LTO Iloilo City District Office (DO)
Iloilo Licensing Center
Iloilo Drivers’ License Renewal Center
Festive Walk Mall Megaworld Drivers’ License Renewal Center
