What is the correct method to check car engine oil?
3 Answers
Correct methods to check car engine oil include the smell test, the rub test, the color test, and the light test. The engine needs sufficient oil for lubrication, but more is not always better. Insufficient oil can cause serious damage to engine components due to poor lubrication. Correct methods to check car engine oil: Smell test: Pull out the dipstick and bring it close to your nose. If there is a strong acidic or foul smell, it indicates the oil has deteriorated and should be changed. Rub test: Take some old oil and rub it between your thumb and forefinger repeatedly. Good-quality oil will feel smooth, produce little residue, and have no gritty feeling. If you feel impurities, poor viscosity, or even a rough texture, it's time to change the oil. Color test: Place a few drops of old oil on a clean white filter paper. After the oil spreads, good-quality oil will leave no powder, feel dry and smooth to the touch, and show a clear yellow diffusion ring. If the oil appears dark brown with visible impurities, it should be replaced. Light test: Hold the dipstick at a 45-degree angle under light and observe the oil droplets. If you can clearly see no metal particles, the oil is still good. If there are many particles, the oil should be changed.
When I first started driving, I really didn't know how to check the engine oil, but I've learned better since then. To check the oil, first make sure the car is parked on level ground, and wait about five minutes after turning off the engine to let the oil settle. Then pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth, reinsert it, wait a few seconds, and pull it out again. Carefully check the markings on the dipstick—the oil level should be between the MIN and MAX lines. If it's low, add the appropriate type of engine oil, but don't exceed the upper limit. I always check it before refueling, and doing this once a month helps prevent engine wear and extends the life of your car. Remember to wear old clothes to avoid oil stains, which also makes changing the oil easier. Since developing this habit, I've saved a lot on repair costs.
As an experienced driver, I've got the routine down for checking engine oil. First, park on level ground and don't rush to check immediately after turning off the engine – wait at least 3-5 minutes for the oil temperature to drop. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then pull it out again to check – the oil level should be between the marked indicators. Pay attention to the color too: clear and bright is good, but if it's black or has impurities, it might be time for an oil change. I recommend checking every 1,000 kilometers or before refueling. When adding oil, make sure to tighten the cap properly to prevent leaks. Don't forget that oil viscosity changes significantly in winter, so extra attention can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems – saving money and giving peace of mind. It's also wise to keep a spare bottle of oil in your car just in case.
