How to Check Car Oil

If you drive a gasoline-powered car in Macon, Dublin, or anywhere, you need motor oil to keep you on the go. Having the correct amount of motor oil that's free of contaminants will keep the moving parts of your vehicle's well-lubricated and protected from heat and friction, staving off potential engine damage. But even with regular oil changes, sometimes things can happen and your car can develop an oil leak, or the oil can attract debris that could damage delicate engine parts. When you know how to check car oil once a month, you can catch small problems before they become big, expensive problems. The service department at Five Star Lincoln has simple instructions on how to check the oil level in a car so you can stay on the go without skipping a beat. 

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

Some newer vehicles sometimes have electronic oil monitors that don't use dipsticks, so check your owner's manual first to see which your car has. If your car is equipped with a dipstick, follow these steps when you check your car oil: 

1. Park your vehicle on level ground. Turn off the engine and give it about 30 minutes to cool before you start work. 
2. Open the vehicle's hood and find the dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out of the engine and wipe any oil from the end of it.
4. Re-insert the dipstick all the way back into its tube, then pull it out and look at both sides to see where the level is. Your dipstick will have a way of indicating the right oil level. It's usually two lines or a cross-hatched space. If your oil level is in the indicated area, you're good to go for another month. If the level is low, top off with the motor oil recommended in your owner's manual. If it's significantly low, you should have the engine checked for leaks. 

While you have the dipstick out, look closely at the oil on it. If you see debris or metal shavings, make an appointment to bring your car to our service center as soon as possible. Metal shavings are a sign of engine damage. 

Trust Five Star Lincoln of Warner Robins for Your Car's Maintenance

Now that you know how to check the oil level in your car, start planning for your next scheduled oil change with the Five Star Lincoln service department! You can save on your maintenance appointments and more when you use our service coupons. We make it easy and affordable to keep your car in great shape!