Black oil on a diesel is normal; here is what is not
Plenty of farm and work pickups around Jackson run diesel engines, and their owners often worry the first time they pull the dipstick. The oil comes out black, sometimes within a few hundred miles of a change.
That is expected. A diesel produces soot as it burns its fuel, and the oil is designed to hold that soot in suspension and carry it out at the next change. Black oil on a diesel is the oil doing its job, not a sign that it has failed.
The color, in other words, tells you very little on a diesel. These things tell you a lot more:
- The level. A diesel that is using oil steadily between changes is worth mentioning. One where the level is rising is more serious, because something is getting into the oil.
- The feel. Oil that is thin and smells of fuel suggests fuel is diluting it.
- The look. A milky or creamy appearance points to coolant, which needs attention promptly.
- Grit. Oil that feels gritty between your fingers suggests dirt is getting past the air filter.
Use the right oil for the engine
Diesel engines generally call for oil made for diesel service, and the specification is in the owner's manual. Bring the manual or tell the store the engine when you book, so the right oil goes in.
While the vehicle is here, the air filter is worth a look on any truck that runs dusty farm roads, and scheduled maintenance picks up whatever else is due. An oil-related warning light or noise is engine repair. The national oil change page covers what the service includes.
Other stores nearby
De Soto and Paducah, KY also change oil.
About this store
The Jackson store runs seventeen services and is managed by Mike Rhymer.
See the national oil change page for all 33 locations.