How Do You Check Oil in a Car?

Knowing how to check oil in a car can help keep your vehicle running smoothly on the roads of Fremont. Motor oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle, and it is important to have the proper level of oil to protect your engine’s internal moving parts. So, how do you check oil in a car? It’s actually quite simple. All you have to do is follow the easy steps listed below. 

How to Check Oil in Car

Many new vehicles are equipped with an electronic oil monitor, so drivers will not have to use a traditional dipstick to get a reading. However, if you do need to check your oil manually, here is how to do so:

1. Park your vehicle on level ground and turn off the engine. The engine should be cold before you check the oil.
2. Pop open the hood to locate the dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out of the engine and wipe any oil from the end of it.
4. Re-insert the dipstick all the way back into its tube. Take it out once more, and inspect both sides to determine the oil level.

If your oil level falls below the proper level indicated on the dipstick, you will need to carefully add more oil. Consult your owner’s manual to see what type of oil is recommended for your vehicle, remove the oil filler cap, then add oil a little at a time until the dipstick indicates you’ve reached the proper level.

Why is it Important to Check Your Oil?

While oil may not seem like an essential component of your vehicle, it absolutely is. All drivers should bring their vehicles in for an oil change at least twice a year. This service may be required more often based on your driving habits. You should also check your oil on a monthly basis because if there is a leak in the system, you can catch it early before it causes costly damage. If you notice your car’s hood is hot to the touch or there is steam billowing out from under the hood, your car could be overheating due to an oil leak. It is important to have your vehicle looked at by a professional as soon as possible. 

How to Reset the Oil Change Light

Most vehicles have the same general process for resetting the oil change light, but you only want to perform this task if the light remains on after the vehicle has received an oil change. 

1. Leave the engine running, but turn the rest of your vehicle’s systems off. 
2. Find the “reset” button or stick on the dashboard. This is usually located near the speedometer and fuel gauge.
3. Hold the button down until the oil change light begins to flash (indication of resetting may vary by vehicle).
4. Turn the ignition off, then wait a couple of seconds before turning the car back on. 

Turn to Sid Dillon for Car Care Tips

Now that you know how to check oil in a car, you may have other questions about vehicle maintenance. If so, turn to the experts at Sid Dillon near Omaha and Lincoln. Feel free to reach out to us at any time.