​

​

​

How to check the oil in a car depends on the vehicle make and model. Most up to date vehicles have digital dashboard, so drivers can quickly and conveniently stay updated on their vehicle’s status. But, if you need or want to check your oil level manually, below are the steps for the general process: 

​​​

1. Have a rag or paper towels with you. Checking oil level can be a grimy procedure!

2. Make sure the car is correctly parked flat on the ground.  

3. The engine needs to be turned off and cold since the vehicle components can be extremely hot. However, some manufacturers recommend checking the oil level when the engine is warm. So in this case refer to the owner’s manual for your specific vehicle.  

4. Open the hood and locate your oil dipstick. It’s usually a handle having a bright orange or yellow color.

5. Pull the dipstick out from the engine and wipe away any oil using a rag. 

6. Return the dipstick to its original position and then remove it again. 

7. Read the dipstick. Every dipstick has a way of indicating the proper oil level. Yours will likely have one of these:

• Two pinholes

• The letters L and H (for low and high)

• The words MIN and MAX

• Simple area of crosshatching (If the top of the oil “streak” is between the two marks or the crosshatched area, the engine oil level is fine)

• If the oil level is low, additional oil should be added. If you don't know, go to our facility and we will help.