How to Check Engine Oil:

Knowing how to check engine oil is a very easy, but very important thing that you need to know how to do if you own a vehicle. Proper oil level is vital to a smooth-running engine.

If we do not monitor such things there can be catastrophic results. Imagine trying to run your body without the right foods, it would not be a good thing.

Engine(yellow) and Transmission(red) Dipsticks

Finding the Dipstick

Most vehicles are equipped with an engine oil dipstick that has a yellow handle. Older vehicles will sometimes have a black and yellow dipstick handle. Certain Euro models do NOT have a dipstick, they are electrically controlled.

It is usually very easy to locate. When you remove the dipstick there will be a level reading on the bottom. The oil must show up in between the lines for the correct level, it is very important that it is not under/over-filled.

Oil level indicator

Checking the Level:

Grab the dipstick and remove from the tube, then wipe the oil from the dipstick. Reinsert the dipstick and remove it again to check the level and get the proper reading.

If the oil is low then you must fill it (and find the source of the leak). I prefer to add about .2qts at a time and recheck after each fill. If the oil is overfull then it will need to be drained a little bit. Depending on when done last, it may be best to go ahead and just change the oil while you are at it.

Different levels and their meaning

Conclusion:

I hope this has helped out a bit.  As simple as it may seem to some, there are a lot of people out there who do not know how to do the basics like this.

In my opinion, it is the small bits of simple knowledge that can help save thousands of dollars.

Now go put your new knowledge to use and check that oil!!

While checking the oil, it may be smart to also inspect the engine air filter. Check THIS out for more info!