What is the method for checking engine oil level?
3 Answers
The method for checking engine oil level is: Park the car on a flat surface, then turn off the engine and wait for about half an hour. First, pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean, then reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again to observe the scale. The oil level should be between the min and max marks on the dipstick, which is normal. If the oil level is below the min mark, it may cause poor lubrication in the engine, increasing engine wear. If the oil level is above the max mark, it may increase resistance during engine operation, affecting engine power output and fuel consumption.
I usually make it a habit to check the engine oil once a week. The specific steps are: find a flat spot to park, turn off the engine, and wait 10 minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan. Open the hood, locate the dipstick with the oil can icon, pull it out firmly, wipe the tip clean with a tissue, reinsert it fully, then pull it out again. At this point, check the oil mark on the metal strip—it should be between the upper and lower marks, preferably slightly toward the upper mark. I also use my phone’s flashlight to check the oil color; if it’s as dark as coffee grounds, it’s time for a change. A quick reminder: in summer, the oil level may appear slightly lower than in winter due to normal temperature differences. After every maintenance service, I record the mileage to better track the inspection frequency, as insufficient oil can directly damage the engine pistons.
From my experience, checking engine oil involves three key steps: First, turn off the engine while it's warm and wait for five minutes, as checking when cold can lead to inaccuracies. Then, open the hood on level ground, being careful not to touch any hot components. Next, locate the dipstick marked with 'OIL' or an oil drop symbol, pull it out completely, wipe it thoroughly, and reinsert it all the way in—this is the standard procedure. Finally, check if the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks. A little tip: some car models have a curved dipstick tube, so if it's not clean the first time, repeat the process. Remember, when topping up with the same type of oil, don't exceed the maximum mark, as this can cause engine noise and increased fuel consumption. Regular monthly checks help identify issues promptly.
