How to Check Engine Oil Level?

[ValerieRose]

Here are the steps to check the engine oil level: 1. Choose a flat surface and check with the dipstick 15 minutes after the engine is turned off. Before checking, remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a tissue. 2. Then reinsert the dipstick until the handle is firmly seated in the tube. 3. Finally, remove the dipstick, hold it horizontally, and observe the oil level. If the oil level is at or below the minimum mark, you should add more oil. Here is some related information: 1. Engine oil, known as the lifeblood of a car, serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide cushioning and shock absorption for the engine. 2. Engine oil consists of two parts: base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of lubricating oil, determining its basic properties, while additives compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil, giving it new properties, making them an important part of lubricating oil.

[DiRachel]

Checking the oil level is actually quite simple, and I usually do it myself. Remember to park the car on level ground and wait 10 minutes after turning off the engine to let the oil settle. Open the hood and look for the yellow or orange pull ring with markings (that's the dipstick). Pull it out and wipe the oil off with a cloth first. At this point, pay attention to the two notches or dot marks at the end of the dipstick, which indicate the minimum and maximum oil levels. Reinsert the dipstick vertically all the way back into the tube and then pull it out again. Hold it horizontally to check the oil stain position. If it falls between the two marks, it's normal. If it's close to the lower mark, promptly top up with the same type of oil. Each time you check, also take a look at the oil's color. If it appears black, it's time for a change. A milky white color might indicate coolant leakage from the radiator mixing with the antifreeze.

[StSamuel]

Never check the engine oil immediately after turning off the engine, as the hot oil can burn your hands. I prefer to do it when the engine is cold, such as before heading out in the morning. For a more accurate reading, wipe the dipstick twice: the first wipe removes the initial residue, and the second reveals the true oil level. If the oil mark falls within the dotted area of the scale, it's safe. If it's below the minimum line, don’t panic—just add half a liter and wait 5 minutes before rechecking. Friends who often drive older cars should keep a spare bottle of oil in the trunk, especially before long trips. Some models with electronic dipsticks require accessing the oil level via the central display screen. If the oil can warning light appears on the dashboard, do not continue driving.

[Travis]

Last week, I taught my daughter how to check the engine oil and found three things beginners often overlook: checking before the car is fully stabilized (readings on a slope are inaccurate), reading without wiping the dipstick first (oil sticks to the inner walls of the tube), and checking immediately after driving (oil hasn't fully drained back). Remember to push the cleaned dipstick all the way back in until you hear a 'click' to ensure it's properly seated. After checking, tighten the oil cap securely—I once forgot to tighten it and ended up with oil splattered everywhere on the highway. Nowadays, new cars have electronic monitoring, but seasoned drivers still prefer manual checks—after all, the mechanical dipstick is the most reliable.