I have a 2011 MCS that was purchased new back in November. Since I took delivery I have regularly checked the oil, usually at each fill up but at least once per month. The car currently has 3500 miles on it and during my most recent check I noticed that the oil seems significantly dirtier than other times. I actually took a picture last month complaining about how hard the clean oil was to read on the dipstick.

Well I guess I am eating my words now. Although it is much easier to read the dipstick with dirty oil, I would prefer to have cleaner oil and a harder time reading the dipstick level!

I am wondering if this is something to be concerned about and perhaps an indicator of something starting to go wrong.

I had planned on getting my first oil change at 5K (I probably should’ve had it changed at 2K after Break-in, but I was hoping I could make it to 5K). Last time I checked the Oil (about 2 weeks and 500 miles ago) it looked much cleaner. Should I go ahead and get it changed ASAP? So far the Oil level seems OK, I am just a bit concerned to see such a significant change in the last two weeks.

I will post pics below, but just wondering if anyone has any insight on this.

Two Weeks ago:


Today:

 

Oil does get "dirty" or discolored with miles. I wouldn't worry about it since it is normal. You can change it now since it is the first change or wait a little longer. My car usually tells me it needs its oil changed every 18k, so I have changed mine every 6000 since I've owned it. I change it twice and the dealer picks up the 3rd... repeat.

 

Absolutely normal and nothing to worry about. Whatsoever.

 

I picked my '11 MCS up on 12/10/10 and checked the oil regularly until I decided to change it with ~3800 miles on it. I have ~5200 miles on it now and aam curious when the 'puter is going to direct me into the dealer for it's "first" oil change.

What you're seeing is normal - and good. Besides lubrication, anti-corrsion and cooling, the oil's job is also to keep the dirt and impurities in suspension to minimize the damage they can do to engine components. The fact that the oil is getting darker with use is a sign it's doing it's job. As long as you keep the proper level in the crankcase, you're doing it right. Modern synthetics do a great job.