How To Check Engine Oil Levels
One of the most important checks you can make on a vehicle is OIL. Be sure to check your oil level and condition once a week to ensure your engine is well lubricated minimising engine wear.
1. You will need
First off you are going to need a clean rag to wipe the dipstick, correct grade of oil (see owners manual) for topping up if necessary and a funnel.
2. Prepare your vehicle
Before opening the bonnet, find level ground to park the vehicle on. This will ensure the level you see on the dipstick is accurate. Now locate the bonnect catch (often found by driver or passenger floor well under dashboard or under steering column) and pull to release the bonnet. Now open the bonnet from outside.
3. Checking the oil level
Locate the dipstick and pull out from its tube. Now wipe the whole length of the dipstick clean of oil and guide the dipstick back into the tube. Ensure the dipstick is pushed all the way in to the tube then pull back out. Now read the end of the dipstick which should have the oil level somewehere in between the low and high marks. If the oil is low, top the engine up by removing the oil filler cap normally located at the highest point of the engine. Drop the funnel into the filler neck and pour in a cupful of oil at a time whilst taking readings from the dipstick. Overfilling the engine with oil is likely to cause leaks so adding a cupful at a time is recommended.
Once the oil level is full, return the dipstick to the tube for the final time and refit oil filler cap. Start engine and check for oil pressure warning lights etc.
2 Responses to “How To Check Engine Oil Levels”
By Michelle on Mar 28, 2008 | Reply
I’ve been told it’s best to test oil level from cold.
By admin on Mar 31, 2008 | Reply
That’s quite true. More importantly, make sure the car is on a level surface though.