How to Check Car Oil

Even when you’re diligent about getting your oil changed on time, you could be doing more for the life of your engine. Did you know that you should be checking your oil from home in Forsyth once a month? When you know how to check car oil, you’ll be able to catch signs of debris that can damage your engine, or notice if your oil level is too low – which might be a sign of an impending problem. It’s really easy to check car oil, and Bellamy Strickland Chevrolet Buick GMC is here to make sure you know how to check car oil.

Why Check Your Car’s Oil Level?

It’s easy to take a car’s oil for granted, especially when you’re getting it changed two or three times a year. When you check your car’s oil level once a month, you can take an up-close look and make sure it’s not dirty. If there are small metal shavings in the oil, it could be a sign that there’s a mechanical problem in the works. Or if it’s repeatedly low, it could mean there’s an oil leak. Especially if you notice your car’s hood is hot to the touch or steam billowing out from under the hood, schedule a service appointment without delay. Your car could have an oil leak and the engine is overheating. Either way, when you check your car’s oil level once a month you could catch small problems before they become big problems while driving in Griffin.

Learn How to Check Car Oil

If you have a newer vehicle you might have an electronic oil monitor that doesn’t require a dipstick. Check your owner’s manual to see if you have one. If you don’t, your manual can tell you where to find your oil dipstick. When you know where it is, follow these steps:

1. Park your vehicle on a level spot and let the engine cool while it’s turned off.
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.

Every dipstick has markings to indicate if the oil level is correct. If you’re in the right area, great! If not, you’ll need to top it off. Make sure you’re using the grade of oil recommended for your car, then use a funnel to add more. If you find your car’s oil is low frequently, keep an eye on your parking spot for oil leaks that require a visit to our service department.

Save on Oil Change Service at Bellamy Strickland Chevrolet Buick GMC!

Now that you know how to check car oil levels, keep on top of your engine maintenance at a great price — check our service specials and take advantage of a great price on your next oil change. Learn about oil, antifreeze, tire rotation, and more with us! Stay on top of all of your car’s fluids; learn more about how to check your vehicle’s transmission fluid.