How to Check Car Oil

Oil is the driving force of your CDJR vehicle, and it’s important to ensure you check that there’s the right amount of oil in your engine at all times. The proper level of oil protects your engine’s internal parts so you can continue to safely commute through Blackfoot. Learn more about how to check your car oil from our service department, and be sure to schedule service when your car is due for an oil change!

How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

If you drive a newer vehicle, you may have access to electronic oil monitors that don’t use traditional dipsticks that many other models do. For this method, start by checking your vehicle’s owner’s manual to see the OEM’s recommendations. Checking your oil manually? Here are the steps you’ll want to follow to properly check the oil levels in your car: 

• Park your vehicle on level ground and ensure that the engine is both turned off and cold (don’t perform this task if you just turned off your vehicle, as it may be dangerous).
• Find and pull out the dipstick by opening your vehicle’s hood. It should be located on your oil tank and is traditionally bright yellow or orange in color.
• Next, you’ll re-insert the dipstick entirely back into its tube and pull it out once more. You’ll want to look at both sides to see how far up the oil level is.

Individual model dipsticks may differ slightly, but they’ll always have a way of showing you what the proper oil level is. If the top of the oil streak on your dipstick falls between two marks or in a cross-hatched area, then the oil level is considered healthy. If you’ve checked your car’s oil level and that is not the case, you’ll likely need to go in for an oil change. If you’re adding oil yourself, be sure to buy the proper grade as recommended in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. When adding oil, only add a little at a time until the dipstick indicates you’ve reached the proper oil level.

The Importance of Checking You Car’s Oil Level

Checking your car oil may seem like a small task, but it’s incredibly important. Having the right oil level is directly related to your vehicle’s performance. In general, getting an oil change twice a year is recommended (or as instructed in your owner’s manual). To keep tabs on when to stop by for oil services, you can check your car’s oil once a month. By doing this, you can drive through Pocatello with the added confidence of knowing your vehicle is in good health. If you notice any issues while checking your car oil — such as oil leaks or an overheated engine — schedule service immediately.

Rely on Sayer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for Oil Services

Now that you know how to check car oil, you can perform this task once a month to keep up-to-date with how your vehicle is doing. For other service tips including determining how often to change your tires, rely on the service experts at Sayer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram! And be sure to check out our current service specials before scheduling your next appointment near Rexburg.