How to Check Car Oil

The correct amount of motor oil is needed to protect all of your engine’s internal moving parts. If you want to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly on the roads of Bedford and Londonderry, you need to know how to check car oil. In this guide from Tulley BMW of Manchester, we’ll show you how to check the oil level in a car in no time. 

How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

If you drive a newer vehicle in Auburn, it is possible that your vehicle is equipped with an electronic oil monitor rather than a traditional dipstick. If your vehicle does not have an electronic oil monitor, you will need to learn how to check car oil manually. Fortunately, it is a quick and easy task you can perform right at home. Simply follow the instructions below: 

1. Park your car on level ground. The vehicle should be shut off, and the engine should be cool. 
2. Pop open the hood to find where the dipstick is located. 
3. Take the dipstick out of the engine and use a cloth to wipe away any oil.
4. Put the dipstick back into place before taking it out once more and looking at each side to see where the oil level falls.

If the oil level is not where it should be, you will need to add more oil. Consult your owner’s manual to see what type of oil your vehicle requires. When you have what you need, remove the oil filler cap and add oil a little at a time until the dipstick indicates you’ve reached the proper level.

The Importance of Checking Your Oil Level

Now that you know how to check the oil level in a car, you may be wondering why this task is needed. Although oil is often overlooked, it is a crucial component of your vehicle. Oil checks should be performed at least once a month so that your vehicle operates at peak performance and so you can catch a leak early on. If you notice your car’s hood is hot to the touch or steam has started to billow out from under the hood, an oil leak could be causing your car to overheat. You will need to bring your vehicle in for service as soon as possible. 

Turn to the Experts at Tulley BMW of Manchester

When it’s time for routine maintenance you can trust, look no further than the service center at Tulley BMW of Manchester. We are also happy to share helpful tips and tricks to keep your vehicle in peak condition. Contact us today.