How to Check Car Oil at Home

Some Lawrenceville drivers are comfortable leaving all of their vehicle’s maintenance tasks to a professional service technician, while others prefer a DIY approach when possible. No matter your approach to car maintenance in Duluth, there’s one essential service task all drivers should know how to do: checking the oil level. Learning how to check car oil may sound daunting, but it’s a surprisingly simple skill to master! The Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth service team provides everything you need to know in this guide.

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in a Car, Step-by-Step

Some modern vehicles utilize an electronic oil monitor rather than the standard dipstick. So, if you’re driving a newer model, the first thing to do is to check your owner’s manual to find out what the case is for your vehicle. If your car has a traditional dipstick, you can follow the steps below for how to check the oil level in a car:

1. Park your car on level ground and allow an appropriate amount of time for the engine to cool down if you’ve just returned from a drive.
2. Pop the hood and locate the dipstick.
3. Remove the dipstick all the way, wiping off all of the oil that will be coating it.
4. Re-insert the dipstick completely, then remove it once more, this time leaving the oil on. Check both sides of the dipstick to determine where the oil level is sitting.

Oil dipsticks indicate the oil level in one of two ways. There might be two marks on the dipstick, or there could be a crosshatched area. So long as the top of the oil streak sits between the two marks or within the crosshatched area, the oil level is acceptable. If the streak is lower than it should be, you will need to add a little oil at a time until the level is correct.

Remember to use the recommended oil grade listed in your owner’s manual. First, remove the oil filler cap, then add the new oil a little at a time, checking the dipstick in between additions to see when you’ve hit the proper oil level.

Why is it Important to Check Your Car’s Oil Level?

Most Suwanee drivers are diligent about getting regular oil changes, which should be done at least twice per year, but many overlook the need for oil level checks, which should be done at least once per month. Why so often? It’s a surefire way to catch any leaks or other issues with your oil before they escalate into a larger, costlier problem.

Contact Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth With Additional Questions

If you require additional help in learning how to check car oil at home in Johns Creek, feel free to contact our service team at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth. We’re here to provide professional tips and advice whenever you need it! Time for a full oil change? Don’t delay; schedule your appointment online with us today, and be sure to check our service specials for great savings.