Can I Add Engine Oil Myself If It's Insufficient?
3 Answers
You can add engine oil yourself if it's low, but you must choose the same brand and batch as the original oil to avoid mixing different types. Also, be careful not to add too much oil. More relevant information is as follows: 1. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves multiple functions such as lubrication and wear reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, and shock absorption. It is often referred to as the 'blood' of a car. 2. Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary component of the lubricant, determining its basic properties, while additives compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil, providing additional performance benefits. Additives are an essential part of engine oil.
As someone who frequently deals with cars, I often perform this minor maintenance task myself. When the engine oil is insufficient, it's perfectly fine to top it up on your own, and the process is quite straightforward. First, wait for the engine to cool down, then pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it to check the oil level. If it's below the minimum mark, it means you need to add oil. Purchase an oil type that meets the specifications in your vehicle's manual from a store—don't use the wrong oil, as it could potentially damage the engine. Use a small funnel to pour the oil in slowly to avoid spills. Be careful not to overfill; just keep it around the middle mark on the dipstick. After adding the oil, start the car and let it idle for a short while, then turn off the engine and check again to ensure everything is normal. This habit can save you money and help identify issues early to avoid major repairs. Checking the oil level every week or two can extend the engine's lifespan and reduce the risk of wear. If you're a beginner and unsure, start by watching a reliable video to learn the basic steps—it's not hard to master.
I think topping up engine oil myself is quite important, especially based on the little tips I've gathered over years of driving. When the oil light comes on or I feel it's running low, I immediately pull over to let the engine cool down - hot oil can scald your hands. Pull out the dipstick to check the level, and if it's truly low, add fresh oil. Remember to choose the correct viscosity grade; don't mix up those SJ or similar numbers specified in the manual. When adding oil, take your time and pour slowly to avoid spills that could contaminate components. After topping up, drive a few kilometers and check again to ensure there are no leaks or abnormalities. The advantage is skipping the queue at repair shops, but safety risks must be considered. If the oil level suddenly drops significantly or you smell burning, it might indicate internal leakage - don't delay and have a professional inspect it immediately to prevent more serious failures. Make it a habit to check monthly - this simple routine prevents major headaches.
