How to Check Your Car's Engine Oil

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Automotive

Performing regular engine oil checks ensures your car runs smoothly and avoids costly engine damage. Here's a quick guide:

1. Why Check Your Engine Oil?

Purpose: Engine oil lubricates moving parts, prevents wear, keeps the engine clean, and regulates temperature.
Frequency: Check your oil every other gas fill-up or as recommended by your car's owner manual.

2. Tools You’ll Need

A clean rag or paper towel.
Your car’s owner’s manual for reference.

3. Checking Your Oil

Prepare the Car:
- Park on level ground.
- Check when the engine is cold (unless the manual specifies otherwise).

Locate the Dipstick:
- Open the hood and find the dipstick (usually marked with a bright handle).

Inspect the Oil Level:
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean.
- Reinsert it fully, then pull it out again to check the oil level.
- Look for markings like MIN/MAX, L/H, or crosshatches.

Check Oil Appearance:
- Normal: Brown or black oil.
- Warning Signs: Milky color (possible coolant leak) or metal particles (engine damage).

Reinsert Dipstick:
- Wipe clean and fully insert the dipstick back into the tube.

4. Adding Engine Oil

Use the Right Oil:
- Refer to your manual for the correct grade (e.g., 0W-20 or 5W-30).

Add Oil Slowly:
- Remove the oil filler cap (usually on top of the engine).
- Use a funnel to avoid spills.
- Add about half a quart, then wait and recheck the dipstick.
- Repeat as necessary until the level is between the MIN/MAX marks.

Finish Up:
- Replace the filler cap securely.

5. Signs to Visit a Mechanic

Oil is milky or contains metal particles.
Engine is burning oil frequently.
Coolant leak is suspected.

Pro Tips

Never overfill your oil; it can damage the engine.
If the oil is consistently low, check for leaks or other issues.
Change your oil every 6 months or as recommended, even if you don’t drive frequently.

Keeping up with this simple maintenance task can save you from bigger problems down the road!