How to Check Car Oil
What is the importance of your car oil? It’s simple: Your motor oil keeps your car moving on the streets of Monticello, MN. It’s important to make sure your oil levels remain steady; low motor oil will lead to lower performance and malfunctions. Whether you’re headed to work or driving cross-country, or surviving a Minnesota winter, it’s important to check the oil level in your car frequently. Find out how to check car oil with Cornerstone Auto, then reach out to our service center with any other maintenance questions!
Learn How to Check the Oil Level in a Car
If you drive a newer vehicle in Ramsey, MN you may have an electronic oil monitor opposed to a dipstick. Check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation before proceeding. If your vehicle requires you to check your oil manually, follow the instructions below:
- Park your vehicle on level ground and make sure the engine is turned off and cold before attempting to check the oil level in your car.
- Open the vehicle’s hood and find the dipstick.
- Take the dipstick out of the engine and wipe off any oil residue that remains on it.
- 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.
The way dipsticks measure oil differs slightly between models. If the top of your oil streak is within two marks, you have the proper oil level. If it is below both marks, then you need to add more oil.
Buy the oil grade recommended for your make and model in your owner’s manual. Remove the oil cap, then add the oil a little at a time until the dipstick indicates you’ve reached the right level.
Why Check The Oil Level In Your Car?
Maintaining the correct oil level in your vehicle is essential to your vehicle’s performance and longevity. You should perform an oil check at least once a month to ensure that your car has the correct oil level. Also, check beneath the car to make sure you don’t have an oil leak that may indicate greater issues with your engine. Depending on the model of your vehicle and how well you drive, you should have your oil changed about twice a year. If you notice your car is hot to the touch or steam billows out of it from beneath the hood, you should have it checked by a service technician immediately. An overheated engine is indicative of an oil leak and will cause serious damage to the rest of the engine if left unattended.
Cornerstone Auto is Here to Help You Maintain Your Vehicle
If your vehicle needs service, reach out to Cornerstone Auto in Elk River for quick service with one of our expert technicians. Our service specials will help cover some of the expenses of your visit, and while you’re here, we’ll do a full check of your vehicle to make sure everything is running smoothly before you drive home to Coon Rapids, MN. Contact us if you have more questions about our vehicles or services. Or, to learn more car care tips, read up on the difference between regular and premium gas, and more!
