Don’t Trust the 0% — The Truth About Your Oil Life Monitor
Alternative Automotive • June 17, 2025
That little oil life percentage on your dash? It’s not telling you how much oil is in your engine, it’s just estimating how worn out it is.
And waiting until it hits 15% (or worse, 0%) can lead to serious engine wear.
What That Number Really Means
The oil life monitor uses your driving habits, engine temperature, and mileage to guess how much lubricity your oil has left. It doesn’t measure oil level, just how effective it still is at protecting your engine.
When You Should Really Change It
We recommend changing your oil when it hits 40–50%—long before that number turns scary. And don’t rely on that monitor alone. Check your oil level manually, especially before road trips.
Why It Matters
Driving on worn oil means less protection, more friction, and expensive damage. Don’t wait for the dashboard to beg, get ahead of it.
Tires are one of the most important parts of your vehicle—but they’re also one of the easiest things to ignore until something goes wrong.
Sometimes you just need a day to hit the road, soak up some fresh air, and explore somewhere new.
Nothing's worse than hopping into your car on a hot day, cranking the A/C, and realizing…it’s not working right.
When your car’s suspension gets repaired—whether it's shocks, struts, or control arms—it’s not just about smoothing out the ride.
Spring is finally here—and just like your house, your car needs a little spring cleaning, too.
Ever wonder what a vehicle inspection at Alternative Automotive is all about?
Have you ever looked at your tires and wondered what those numbers mean?
Seeing the check engine light (CEL) pop up can be stressful, but it’s important to understand what it means.
Winter roads may be necessary for safety, but the salt and cold weather can wreak havoc on your car’s undercarriage.
It was a chilly January morning, and Steve was driving to work through a light drizzle.
