How to check the oil in your car

Here in this article, we will show you all the steps on how to check the oil in your car.

  • Check oil level every four weeks
  • Dirty oil must be changed
  • Use the dipstick to check the oil
  • Top up if dipstick shows “add”
  • Wipe dipstick with a clean rag
  • Check oil when the engine is cold

 

How do I check my car’s oil?

Checking the oil levels of your vehicle is of the utmost importance and, if you do this regularly, it will save you a lot of money in maintenance costs in the long-run. Remember, car engines have oil for one reason and that’s to reduce friction in the engine and keep it running smoothly.

How To Check the oil in your car

So let’s take this process in steps – it’s as easy as one, two and three.

  1. Once a month check the level of your vehicle’s oil.
  2. You do this by using the dipstick.
  3. Pull the dipstick out of its container, wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth and then re-insert it into its container to check the level reading.
  4. If your vehicle is a front-wheel drive, then you’ll find the dipstick near the front of the engine.
  5. If you have a vehicle manufactured in Europe it may not have a dipstick. Check your owner’s manual on how to check the car’s oil levels.
  6. Now, pull the dipstick out of its container and if the oil level only reaches the mark displaying “add” then you know you must top-up the oil level.
  7. Remember, always only check the level of the oil in your vehicle when the engine is cold – that will give you a true reading.
  8. You can check the condition of the engine oil by placing some on your fingers. If it smells like petrol or is discoloured and dirty, it’s time to change the engine oil.
  9. When you re-insert the dipstick into its container and it becomes stuck, give it a twist so that the metal stick bends back naturally into the curved container.
  10. You are done!

 

A friendly word of advice on how to check the oil in your car

Now don’t try to add oil directly into the dipstick’s tiny tube. It won’t work! Look at your car’s engine, locate the screw-off cap that could be labelled “oil cap” and that is where you must pour in the new engine oil.

If you are unsure, go to your local service station and ask your petrol attendant for assistance.

Reminders on how to check the oil in your car

Dark-coloured engine oil doesn’t necessarily mean that its quality has been undermined. It’s only when the oil leaves a grubby smudge that you will know it is time for an engine oil change. The best way to test that quality is to rub a little of the oil between your thumb and index finger. If it leaves a grubby smudge, it is time to change the oil.

Engine oil can be bought at a number of outlets. Check the oil regularly at your local service station. But if you want to save money, buy your engine from auto supply stores or supermarkets. These are usually sold in 5-litre containers that will last you for several months.

 

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All info was correct at time of publishing June 21, 2018