How to Check Car Oil

We believe that every Asheville driver should know how to check the oil level in a car, whether they’re buying or leasing it. It’s one of the simplest things you can do to maintain your vehicle. And, checking the oil regularly can alert you to a problem before it becomes serious and causes catastrophic damage to your vehicle. But if you don’t know how to check the oil in your car, don’t worry. Our service department wants to help you keep your car running for years to come. That’s why we’ve put together the helpful guide below on how to check car oil.

How to Check the Oil Level in a Car

Many of our Hendersonville customers check their oil whenever they stop for gas. Why? A low oil level can indicate a leak or, even worse, that the engine is burning oil. Either condition needs to be repaired, as an engine can overheat or even seize up when there is not enough oil running through it, causing the car to be mechanically totaled. Of course, if you need any help at all, feel free to schedule a service appointment with us. Here’s how to check the oil level in a car:

• Make sure the car is off and the engine has had enough time to cool down.
• Open the hood and locate the dipstick.
• Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel.
• Stick the dipstick back in all the way.
• Pull out the dipstick again and examine the tip.

How to Read the Dipstick

You’ve located the dipstick. Great! But, how do you read it? No explanation of how to check car oil is complete without explaining how to read a dipstick. Follow these steps:

• Locate the cross-hatched area on the dipstick near the tip.
• Oil should reach somewhere inside the cross-hatched area.
• If the oil does not reach the cross-hatched area, add a quart of oil.
• Run your car’s engine, turn the car off, then check the oil again.

Let the Trained Professionals Apple Tree Acura Help!

Our service center technicians are ready and able to assist you with any service or maintenance needs you have. While you’re here, check out our service specials. And if you enjoyed this handy guide on how to check car oil, make sure to check out our guide on how often you should have it changed. We’re just down the road from Johnson City, so drop by or contact us today!