To check your engine oil, follow these simple steps:
- Allow the Car to Cool Down:
- Make sure the area where you park your car is fairly flat.
- Pull or push the latch at the foot of the driver-side door to open the hood.
- Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended cooling time. Some vehicles suggest waiting five minutes after turning off the car.
- Locate and Remove the Dipstick:
- The oil dipstick is usually near the passenger side or close to the front of the engine block.
- Slowly pull out the dipstick, wiping off any oil with a paper towel as you do so.
- Wipe and Reinsert the Dipstick:
- After pulling out the dipstick, wipe it clean.
- Reinsert it fully into its tube for an accurate reading.
- Dipsticks typically have two holes indicating the minimum and maximum fill lines. The oil level should ideally be in the range of these two markers.
- Read the Oil Level on the Dipstick:
- With the engine cool and leveled, open the car’s hood and locate the dipstick next to the engine block.
- Pull the dipstick out and wipe off the end with a paper towel.
- Insert the dipstick back into its tube for an accurate reading.
- The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum fill lines on the dipstick.
- Check the Oil Cap:
- Locate the oil cap on top of the engine (often labeled “Oil Fill”).
- Remove the cap, wipe it off, and insert a clean funnel to add engine oil if needed.
Always refer to the owner’s guide of your car for detailed instructions and suggested oil levels. Regularly checking and maintaining proper oil levels is essential for your car’s health and longevity!
