How to Read a Car's Oil Dipstick?
3 Answers
Here is the method to read a car engine's oil dipstick: 1. Pull out the oil dipstick and use a tissue to completely wipe off the oil stuck to the dipstick head. 2. Reinsert the cleaned dipstick all the way in, then pull it out again. 3. Observe the position of the oil stuck on the dipstick. 4. If the oil level is between the upper and lower marks, it indicates the engine oil quantity is appropriate. If it's below the lower mark, you need to add oil. The following conditions are required for reading the dipstick: 1. The engine oil temperature must not be below 60 degrees; 2. Park the vehicle on a level surface, turn off the engine, and wait for three minutes to allow the oil to drain back into the oil pan. Then you can start checking the oil level.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I've learned that checking the dipstick requires careful attention. After parking and turning off the engine, wait about ten minutes to let the oil settle back into the oil pan—otherwise, the reading won't be accurate. Open the hood, locate the yellow or red dipstick handle, and make sure you don't mistake its position. Pull it out, wipe all oil traces clean with a cloth or tissue, then reinsert it fully. Wait a few seconds, then slowly pull it out vertically to check—the oil mark should be between the maximum and minimum lines for a normal oil level. If it's too low, add the appropriate type of oil, but don't exceed the upper limit; if it's too high, remove some to avoid engine damage. Oil color is also important—if it's black or contains impurities, it's time for a change. Check it monthly, and always confirm before long trips. This protects the engine well and saves a lot on major repairs. Follow these simple steps consistently, and your car will have fewer problems.
When I was learning to drive, I was quite nervous and didn't know what to do the first time I checked the dipstick. Now I understand: first, park the car on a flat surface and turn off the engine, then wait a few minutes without rushing. Locate the dipstick handle, which may be in different positions under the hood depending on the car. After pulling out the dipstick, be sure to thoroughly wipe off any oil residue with a soft cloth, as leftover oil can affect the reading. Reinsert it fully and then pull it out again to check if the oil level is between the maximum and minimum marks. If it's low, add oil slowly to avoid overfilling; if it's too high, take action to prevent potential hazards. I've noticed that beginners often make mistakes like not reinserting the dipstick properly or failing to clean it thoroughly, leading to incorrect readings. Wearing gloves is recommended to keep hands clean. Make it a habit to check at least once a month—safety comes first, and it helps detect issues early.
