Checking your car’s oil is an easy and quick maintenance task that nearly every driver can do independently. If you can’t replace your engine oil, you should be able to examine it on your own. Most models require regular oil changes every three months or 3 thousand miles. Examine the levels of your engine’s oil between your regular oil replacements to confirm that the oil is getting clean and low. Take these steps to test your car’s oil level:
Which oil is best for my vehicle?
It all depends on your car. However, you must ensure you’re using the correct oil for your vehicle to avoid damaging the engine.
For information on what oil would be best for your vehicle, refer to your manual or call the company since selecting an oil that complies with its specifications is important.
After you’ve found the right oil, look through the range of lubricants and oils at the RAC Shop.
How to check your car’s Oil Step-by-Step
- Check that your vehicle’s engine has been shut off and that the vehicle is placed on the ground level
- Lift the hood of your car
- Find the dipstick for oil. It’s generally yellow and can be identified by “OIL.”
- If you own a more recent automobile and aren’t able to locate an oil dipstick, look on the dashboard to see if there is an electronic monitor on your oil
- Get the dipstick out.
- Clean it to remove the oil residue, then insert it back on the dipstick.
- Take the dipstick off again.
- Place the dipstick on its flat side, then look for the minimum and maximum indicators. If the oil level is somewhere in between, your levels are fine.
- Check the color. You’re probably in good condition if the color ranges from amber to dark brown. If the color is black or slimy, it’s time for an oil replacement.
- If the oil you’re using is clean but isn’t at the threshold, then it’s the right and ideal time to increase the amount of oil.
When should I be checking my oil?
In the previous paragraph, Consumer Reports recommends checking your vehicle’s oil for every additional gas refill. The only thing you need for this is a paper or rag towel for wiping the dipstick.
How do I Include the Engine Oil
- Choose the type of oil recommended by the manual for the user. Most likely, it will include a number such as 5W-30 or 0W-20. It can be purchased in quarts at any auto parts or service shop or in various supermarkets and discount stores.
- For adding oil, remove the cap on the oil tank, typically over the engine. It is helpful to utilize funnels so that the oil does not spill over the engine, other parts, and the flooring.
- As overfilling your oil can harm the engine, it is recommended to apply only a small amount at one time. Begin by adding one-quarter of a gallon. A funnel can help keep spills from happening. Take a few minutes and then test the dipstick. If it’s lower than or close to the minimum level, you can add the remaining of the quarter. If your engine isn’t leaking or burning (or if you haven’t checked recently), it is unnecessary to increase the amount by more than 1 quart. But, if a third one is required, make it slowly, taking note of the changes while you add it.
- Attach the cap to the oil filler in place and secure it.
Summary
Regular oil checks are essential for your vehicle’s health and long-term performance. If you keep an eye on the oil in your vehicle, you will be sure it’s always top-up and in good condition. Ensuring your oil is checked is simple, even if you’re not a mechanical expert, and this is one of those auto maintenance jobs anyone could complete.