How to Check Car Oil

Motor oil is an essential component of your vehicle that protects all the engine’s internal moving parts. Because of its important job, it is a good idea to know how to check car oil on a regular basis. In the guide below, our service experts will show you how to check the oil level in a car.

How to Check the Oil Level in a Car

If you drive a newer vehicle around , it may be equipped with an electronic oil monitor rather than a traditional dipstick. If you are unsure whether or not your vehicle has a traditional dipstick, take a look at your owner’s manual. If it does, you will need to check your oil manually. Here are the simple steps:

1. Park your vehicle on level ground. The engine should be off and cold.
2. Pop open the hood to locate the dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out of the engine and wipe any oil from the end of it.
4. Re-insert the dipstick fully into its tube, then pull it out again and look at both sides.

The dipstick will have markings that indicate the proper level of oil. If your vehicle’s oil level falls below those markings, you will need to add more oil.

Confirm the required grade of oil by looking at your owner’s manual. Remove the oil filler cap and add oil a little at a time until adequately filled.

The Importance of Checking Your Oil

Now that you know how to check car oil, you may be wondering why this task is so important. Although oil is often overlooked, the proper oil level is essential to your vehicle’s performance on roads.

For most drivers, oil changes are recommended at least twice yearly. Oil checks should be performed at least once a month to ensure there are no leaks. If the hood of your car is hot to the touch or there is steam billowing out from under the hood, have your vehicle inspected by a professional without delay. This could be a sign of a leak.

Keep Your Vehicle Running Smoothly with Brown's Family of Dealerships

Now that you know how to check the oil level in a car, we are happy to assist you with other vehicle service needs. Get in touch with us today for more information.