How to Check Car Oil

Your engine block is composed of hundreds of moving parts. Without oil, the friction would generate tons of kinetic energy, and consequently, heat. If you don’t keep your engine properly lubricated, it can overheat, resulting in catastrophic engine failure on the streets of North Wales. Read on to learn about how to check the oil level in your car, so you stay on top of your bi-annual oil changes. Then explore our service specials to see how much you can save on a fast and affordable oil change at North Penn Mazda in Colmar. 

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

The first thing to note is that these directions apply to traditional engine blocks. Higher-end models from the past few years sometimes feature electronic oil monitors and don’t use traditional dipsticks. If this sounds like it might be your model, check your owner’ manual for specific recommendations. Once you’ve verified that you can perform an oil check manually, follow these simple instructions: 

1. Park your car on ground level, turn the engine off, and let it cool. 
2. Pop the hood and locate the dipstick. 
3. Pull it out of the oil reservoir, which you can locate by consulting your owner’s manual, and wipe the oil off the end of it. 
4. Then re-insert the dipstick back into the tube. Pull it out one more time and see where the oil level reaches on the dipstick.

Your dipstick will have a way of showing you what the proper oil level is. In most cases, there will be two marks, and if the oil rises to the area between them, it means that you have the proper amount of oil in your car. 

Why Check Your Car’s Oil Level?

Most Lansdale drivers know to get their oil changed every 5 to 7,000 miles on the odometer, but that figure can vary dramatically depending on how old your car is and what type of car you drive. You also need to take a look under your hood now and again to check for leaks. In general, checking your car oil levels is a great way to make sure you’re not burning through your oil faster than you thought you would, and a good opportunity to glance over your engine block for signs of trouble. 

Have Questions About How to Check Your Oil Level? 

Chalfont drivers struggling to figure out how to check their car oil can reach out North Penn Mazda for help. Our phone number is (215) 822-1361. We’ll happily answer any questions you have. If you have questions about other common car care topics, be sure to explore our site for more helpful guides about when to change your engine air filter and how to check transmission fluid.