It is necessary to measure the oil level in the engine twice a month. By maintaining the oil level at the right level, you can be sure of the normal operation of your car engine: it will not let you down. Measuring the oil level is a simple procedure that you can always handle on your own.
Necessary
- - clean rag
- - protective gloves
Instructions
Step 1
Park your vehicle on a level surface. It doesn't have to be a garage or a box of a service center: your own yard or a quiet section of the roadway, where no one will bother you to calmly carry out the procedure, is quite suitable.
Step 2
It is best to check the oil level when the engine is cold, unless otherwise specified in your vehicle's manual. If you have recently driven your car, you will have to wait and postpone the check until the engine has completely cooled down. This usually takes several hours, so it is best to check the oil when, for example, you are going somewhere on a weekend, but have not started the car yet.
Step 3
Put on your gloves, lift up the hood and find the dipstick. It is a thin, long piece of metal with a handle at the end. Typically, the dipstick is very close to the middle of the engine and the handle may be brightly colored.
Step 4
As soon as you find the dipstick, pull it slightly towards you and remove it completely from the engine.
Step 5
Wipe down the dipstick. Use a clean rag or paper towel for this purpose. Return the clean dipstick to its place by inserting the handle as far as it will go.
Step 6
Remove the dipstick again. This time, be careful not to smear the oil from the surface as you pull it out. Once you have removed the dipstick, place it horizontally so that the oil does not flow downward.
Step 7
Take the readings. Take a closer look at the bottom of the dipstick (the one that is most likely covered with oil): on it you will find graduations, like on a scale, which will indicate the recommended, minimum and maximum oil levels.
Step 8
Make sure your engine has enough oil and top up if necessary.
