How to Check Car Oil

Checking the oil level in your car is a simple way to ensure the long life of your vehicle. No matter if you tend to drive more often than not or if you only take small trips to the grocery store every now and again, keeping your vehicle’s oil clean and filled to the appropriate levels will make sure your vehicle’s engine is in top condition. Learn more about how to check car oil with the service team at Biggers Mazda or schedule an appointment for a Mazda oil change service today!

Learn How to Check Oil Level in Your Car

Before you check the oil in your car, check your owner’s manual to confirm whether your vehicle has a traditional dipstick or not. Some newer vehicles have an electronic oil motor. If you find your model has a traditional dipstick, follow these steps to check the oil level:

1. Make sure the vehicle is parked on level ground and that the engine is turned off and cold.
2. Open the vehicle’s hood and find the dipstick. Where is the dipstick? It should be in front of the engine and likely says “oil.” Again, if there is no dipstick, your car, truck, or SUV might have an electronic oil monitor.
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.

Most dipsticks have a way to indicate the proper oil level. It’s typically a hash mark. If the top of your oil streak is between two marks or within a crosshatched area, the level is good. If not, you’ll need to add more oil.

If you decide to change the oil yourself, be sure to also check your owner’s manual for the type of oil your vehicle requires. To refill the oil, remove the oil filler cap, add a small amount of oil at a time until the dipstick indicates you’ve reached the proper level. After adding oil, wait a minute or two before checking again to ensure the level is correct.

How Often Should I Check the Oil Level in My Car?

We highly recommend that you check your oil at least once a month. If your vehicle doesn’t have the right amount of oil, your engine won’t be properly lubricated, causing serious damage over time. Should you decide to change your oil at home, keep in mind knowing how to check the oil in your car is a much easier process than draining and changing the oil and replacing the oil filter as well. Need help? Schedule service at the Biggers Mazda service center.

Schedule a Service Appointment with Biggers Mazda

At Biggers Mazda, we want to make sure you have access to the services your vehicle needs at a price you can afford. Check out our service specials, as well as parts specials, in order to save more on the services, parts, and accessories your vehicle needs. Have questions in the meantime about your vehicle, how much a transmission costs, and more? Contact our team!