How To Check Your Car’s Oil Level
Checking your oil regularly is an easy way to keep your car's engine running smoothly, and detect early warning signs of repair. Here's a quick guide on how to check your car's oil:
How often should I check my car's oil?
Ideally, you should check your car's oil weekly. If your car has a sensor, it might be tempting to wait until it alerts you that it's time for a change but it's always best to get ahead of this warning to prevent damage to your engine. In fact, you should take a look at all of your fluid levels at least once a month, especially if you have a long commute or travel frequently. Checking these often will help to ensure you don't have a sudden breakdown if one of these reservoirs runs dry.How to Check Your Oil Level
- Make sure your car is on a level surface. Stop the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle ait as the engine cools down.
- Locate your dipstick, usually found on the top of your oil tank. Typically, your dipstick has a bright yellow ring.
- Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Return it to the oil tank, making sure it's fully inserted into the tank, and take it out a second time.
- Working quickly, check the level of the oil as indicated on the dipstick. There will be two marks on the dipstick showing the optimum level that your oil should be at. Your oil level should be between the two.
Too Low Or Too High?
If your engine doesn't have enough oil, it won't run as efficiently. If you check your oil and the level is below the bottom line, or if there isn't any oil on the dipstick at all, that's a big problem. You should immediately top off your engine oil and come in for an inspection. If your oil level is above the line, the reservoir is overfilled and needs to be level-set. If too much oil is poured into the reservoir, the excess can be pulled into the crankshaft as it spins, causing damage to other parts of the engine.At V&F
At V&F, we provide our customers with a well-rounded knowledge of all things automotive— including how to check your oil. Our family-owned and operated service center provides top-quality auto repair services to Agawam, Feeding Hills, Southwick, West Springfield, and the surrounding Massachusetts communities. If your car needs maintenance or repair, give us a call at (413)314-2280 or schedule an appointment online.
This article was originally published in 2019 and was been updated in 20223.