How to Check Car Oil

Motor oil is needed to protect your engine’s internal moving parts and to keep your vehicle from overheating on the roads of Buffalo. It is important that your vehicle always has the proper amount of oil, meaning it is also important to know how to check car oil. So, are you wondering how to check the oil level in a car? You are not alone. That is why the team at Robert Basil Buick GMC has created a step-by-step guide on how to perform this maintenance task at home. 

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in a Car

If you drive a newer vehicle in Blasdell, there is a good chance that your vehicle has an electronic oil monitor rather than a traditional dipstick. If that is not the case and you have to check your oil manually, follow the steps below: 

1. Park your vehicle on level ground. The engine should be off and cool before attempting this task. 
2. Pop open the hood to find the location of the dipstick. 
3. Take the dipstick out and remove all of the oil from the end of it.
4. Put the dipstick back into place before taking it out once more. Inspect both sides of the dipstick to see where the oil level falls. If the top of your oil streak is between two marks or within a cross-hatched area, your vehicle has enough oil. If not, you will need to add more. 

Consult your owner’s manual to see what type of oil is needed for your vehicle. Remove the oil filler cap and slowly add oil until the dipstick indicates that you have the proper amount. 

The Importance of Checking Your Oil Level

Motor oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle, and it is important to schedule an oil change at least twice a year. You should check your oil on a monthly basis to confirm that there are no oil leaks. If you notice your car’s hood is hot to the touch or there’s steam billowing out from under the hood as you drive around West Seneca, an oil leak could be causing your engine to overheat. You will want to set up a service appointment as soon as possible. 

Keep Up with Routine Vehicle Maintenance at Robert Basil Buick GMC

Now that you know how to check car oil, you may be interested in learning more about other vehicle maintenance tasks. We can help! Contact us today for more information or explore our helpful how-to guides.