Checking your engine oil regularly is important for your car’s performance and lifespan. Engine oil serves as the lifeblood of your car’s engine, lubricating its moving parts, preventing wear and tear, and dissipating heat. In this guide, we’ll show you how to check your engine oil level, making it simple for experienced drivers and beginners.

Why Regularly Checking Engine Oil Matters

Maintaining the right engine oil level is vital for the health of your car’s engine. Insufficient oil can lead to increased friction and heat, potentially causing severe damage to internal components. On the other hand, excess oil can lead to foaming and improper lubrication. By routinely checking your engine oil, you can catch potential problems early and prevent expensive repairs down the road.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Engine Oil

Step 1: Park on a Level Surface

Park your car on a flat, level surface and turn off the engine. Engaging the parking brake will prevent the vehicle from rolling during the inspection.

Step 2: Wait for the Engine to Cool

For safety reasons, it’s essential to let the engine cool down for a few minutes before checking the oil level. This allows the oil to settle back into the oil pan, giving you a more accurate reading.

Step 3: Locate the Dipstick

Open the car’s hood and locate the engine’s dipstick. The dipstick is usually bright-colored (often yellow or orange) and has a loop or handle for easy gripping.

Step 4: Remove and Wipe the Dipstick

Carefully pull out the dipstick from its tube and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. This ensures that the oil residue from previous readings doesn’t interfere with your current assessment.

Step 5: Reinsert the Dipstick and Remove Again

Fully reinsert the dipstick back into its tube, making sure it goes in all the way. Then, pull it out again to check the oil level.

Step 6: Examine the Oil Level

Observe the markings on the dipstick to determine the oil level. Typically, there are two markings – “Add” and “Full” or two sets of crosshatch lines. The oil level should be between these two markings.

Step 7: Add Oil if Necessary

If the oil level is too low, it means the engine needs more oil. The low oil level indicates that it is below the “Add” mark or the minimum crosshatch line. In this case, add the appropriate type and amount of oil following the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Step 8: Recheck the Oil Level

After adding oil, wait for a short period of time for it to settle. Then, use the dipstick to check the oil level again. This will ensure that the oil level is within the acceptable range.

Conclusion

Regularly checking your engine oil is an essential aspect of car maintenance that you should never overlook. By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily ensure that your car’s engine stays well-lubricated and functions optimally. Regularly doing this simple task will extend the lifespan of your vehicle. It will also improve the smoothness and safety of your driving experience, benefiting both you and your passengers.