What is the method to check the engine oil level?
3 Answers
To check the engine oil level, follow these steps: 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface; 2. After parking for 10 minutes, pull out the dipstick; 3. Hold the dipstick perpendicular to the ground to check the oil level. The standard for adding engine oil is to maintain the oil level between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. The effects of excessive engine oil are: 1. It creates unnecessary resistance to the crankshaft rotation, affecting power output; 2. Reduces engine power; 3. Worsens exhaust emissions and damages the catalytic converter; 4. Causes engine oil leaks. The effects of insufficient engine oil are: 1. Affects the overall lubrication of the engine; 2. Causes damage to internally lubricated components such as the camshaft, crankshaft, cylinder liners, and bearings.
I've been driving for over 20 years and am quite skilled at checking engine oil levels. I usually do it in the morning when the engine is cold, and it's crucial to park on level ground as uneven surfaces can give false readings. Open the hood, locate the dipstick, pull it out and wipe off the oil residue with an old cloth, then fully reinsert it for a few seconds before pulling it out again to carefully observe where the oil level sits between the MIN and MAX marks - that's the proper range. If it's below MIN, you'll need to add fresh oil but don't pour too much at once; just top it up to the midpoint and recheck. Running low on oil is dangerous - I once forgot to check before a highway trip and the engine overheated with loud knocking sounds, nearly causing catastrophic failure. Regular checks significantly extend engine life. Monthly inspections are ideal, coordinated with oil change intervals - typically every 5,000 km or as recommended in your manual to maintain clean oil. Always use the correct oil grade for your vehicle model and climate, and never mix different types.
As a car DIY enthusiast, checking engine oil levels requires attention to detail. Park the car on level ground to ensure accuracy, then perform the check when the engine is cold to minimize misjudgment. Pull out the dipstick to observe its structure—usually marked with two grooves or labels (MIN/MAX). Wipe off residual oil with a cloth, reinsert it, wait five seconds, then pull it out again to read the oil level. A mid-range reading is ideal. Ensure good lighting when reading to avoid shadow interference. If the level is low, add the appropriate amount of oil with the viscosity specified in the manual, pouring slowly through a funnel to avoid spills and stains. Also, check the oil color—clear is good, while black or thick oil indicates it's time for a change to prevent engine wear. DIY can save money, but precision is key—keep tools like the dipstick and gloves ready. Bonus tip: Some high-end cars have electronic oil level monitoring, but the dipstick method remains reliable. Beginners should start with it to master basic maintenance.
