How to Check the Oil Dipstick?
3 Answers
The method to check the oil dipstick is as follows: 1. First, locate the position of the oil dipstick, which is usually next to the engine. The dipstick has a distinct feature—a pull ring. 2. After pulling out the dipstick for the first time, wipe it clean with a clean tissue, then reinsert it. 3. Pull out the oil dipstick a second time to check the oil level on the dipstick. If the oil level is between the upper and lower limits, it indicates that the oil level is normal. Here are some precautions to note when checking: 1. When checking the oil dipstick, make sure the car's four wheels are parked on the same level ground without any tilt in any direction. 2. The oil dipstick is used to measure the static oil level height, reflecting whether the engine oil volume is within a reasonable range. 3. Standard oil dipsticks will have clear upper and lower limit marks; just ensure the measured oil level is between these two marks.
Checking the dipstick is actually quite simple. As a car owner, I've developed a habit of waiting for the engine to fully cool down after parking on level ground, ensuring the oil returns to the oil pan for an accurate reading. Then, I pull out the dipstick—usually a handled rod located under the hood—wipe it clean with a cloth, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. The oil mark should fall between the high and low indicators to be considered normal. If it's too low, I add the same type of oil but avoid overfilling. I check it weekly to prevent excessive engine wear. The key is that aged or leaking oil can harm performance, so I change the oil regularly every 5,000 kilometers or so to ensure proper lubrication and extend the engine's lifespan. This approach makes driving more worry-free and saves money on repairs.
When I first learned to drive, I was also confused, but now I understand the process. After parking and turning off the engine, wait a few minutes for it to cool down. The car must be on level ground, or the reading won't be accurate. Pull out the dipstick, wipe off the oil film—beginners often forget this—then fully reinsert and pull it out to check the oil level. The oil should be between the high and low marks; if it's low, top it up to the appropriate level. Don't add too much oil at once, or the engine may smoke and get damaged. I recommend beginners check the oil once a month and also observe the oil color: if it's too dark or foamy, it's time for an oil change. Learning this can save you from costly repairs, and once it becomes a habit, the engine runs much smoother.
