How to Check Engine Oil?

How to Check Engine Oil?

Today, modern cars will have electronic oil monitors which will alert the driver with a light on the dashboard signalling that the engine oil is low. However, for many cars, you will need to get under the bonnet and do a manual engine oil check by using the dipstick. Here at MyCarNeedsA.com, we have put together a step-by-step guide to help look after your car between services to help you avoid those engine problems.

What do you need for an engine oil check?

● Bottle of engine oil - this is required should you need to top-up the oil.

● Funnel.

● Kitchen towel to clean the dipstick.

Step 1: Park your car and turn the engine off

The first step in the process will be to park your car on level ground, avoid parking on slopes or hills as this might give you an inaccurate oil reading. You also want to let the car cool down for some time before you check the engine oil level or simply check it before you even get into the car. Under no circumstances should you be checking anything under the bonnet with the engine running as it could result in a serious injury.

Step 2: Locate the dipstick and wipe it clean

The next step is to open your car’s bonnet and locate the dipstick, generally, they will be made with brightly coloured plastic handles. Once you’ve found it, you then need to remove it and wipe it clean with a bit of kitchen towel. Before putting the dipstick back in, you want to make sure you can see the 2 marks on the dipstick which indicate the minimum and maximum oil levels.

Step 3: Check the oil levels

Once you have carried out the above, it’s time to put the clean dipstick back and push it all the way down into the tube. Pull it back out and check where the oil line is to those marks on either end of the dipstick. If your oil is between the min and max marks, the level of oil is fine. However, if it is below or even close to the minimum mark then you need to top up with some oil.

Step 4: Topping up the engine oil

If you have found your oil is below the minimum level, it will need to be topped up. Locate the oil filler cap in your engine bay and will have the word ‘oil’ or an outline of an oil can on it. You will then use the funnel to pour the engine oil. The difference between the two marks on the dipstick is around a 1L, so if you were below or just below, it’s best to pour in about 1L. Don’t put too much oil in as this can be as detrimental as having too little.

Does your car need an oil change but you don’t feel too confident doing it yourself? Many benefits come with regular oil changes and here at MyCarNeedsA.com, we can help you find a local mechanic in your area to replace your engine oil for you,get your quotes today!