How to Check Your Engine Oil Level

Difficulty rating:
How often:	Weekly
Time to allow:	10min
Tools/ materials needed:	Paper towels, funnel, top-up oil

Checking the engine oil is a quick and easy job that guards against potentially high repair bills. Low levels of oil will lead to engine wear. Research has shown that one in three cars are too low on oil. Don't imagine it's a job you can safely skip, even on a newer car. While most are better built and more reliable than ever before, many still consume oil - particularly when the engine is new. If you let the oil run dry, you can't rely on the maker's warranty to foot the bill.

Although most cars have dashboard gauges or warning lights to show when oil is low, engine damage may already have occurred by the time they show. Regular checks via the dipstick will ensure levels remain acceptable. Make sure you carry some oil in case a top up is needed.  Make sure it is of the right type for your car.

When buying oil, refer to your car's owner's manual to ensure you obtain the correct type. Check its viscosity (thickness), shown as the SAE rating, and the  quality.

1) Park on a level surface and, with the engine stopped, raise and secure the hood. For this job, it is best if the engine is warm but has been switched off for at least five minutes. Find the dipstick and pull it fully out of its tube. The dipstick handle is often brightly colored to help you find it.

2) Wipe the dipstick on the towel and look for the 'minimum' and 'maximum' marks towards its end.

3) Push it slowly back into its tube then pull it out completely. The oil level should be clearly visible.

4) If it is near to or below the 'minimum', you'll need to add oil. The engine's filler cap is usually on the top of the engine block and may be clearly marked. If it's not, and there are filler caps for other systems near it, check in the owner's manual to make sure you have the right one.

		5) Remove the cap - some unscrew, others pull or push. Add a little oil. Wait 60 seconds for it to reach the bottom of the engine, then re-check the dipstick. Add more if needed and re-check until near the 'maximum' mark. Refit the filler cap tightly, clean up any spills and check that the dipstick has been replaced. Close the hood.