What does checking the engine oil level mean?

[BradleyRose]

Checking the engine oil level is a warning indicator that suggests an abnormal engine oil level, where the computer detects a low oil level, indicating either insufficient oil or a faulty oil level sensor. When checking the oil level, it should be done with the vehicle turned off by inspecting the oil dipstick. The dipstick has two markings: a maximum level and a minimum level. The normal oil quantity should not be above the maximum level nor below the minimum level; it should be between these two marks. Below are the specific steps to check the oil level: 1. Locate the oil dipstick. 2. Pull out the oil dipstick. 3. Wipe the dipstick clean with a tissue and reinsert it fully. 4. Observe the oil dipstick. If the oil level is between the upper and lower marks, it is normal, and no additional oil is needed.

[VanRowan]

Checking the engine oil level essentially means verifying if there's enough oil. I usually open the hood when the engine is cold, locate the yellow-ringed dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and then pull it out to see if the oil mark falls between the min and max indicators. It's especially crucial to check before long trips—my cousin once forgot to check before a highway drive, ran the oil dry, and ended up with a seized engine, costing over 8,000 RMB in repairs. With hot weather speeding up oil consumption, checking every two weeks is safest. If the oil appears black or contains metal particles, change it immediately. Remember to park on level ground, wait 5 minutes after turning off the engine, and avoid checking on a slope or right after shutdown for accurate readings.