How to Check Car Oil

It’s amazing how much of your car’s life hinges on the condition and amount of motor oil it has. But the truth is, motor oil is the lifeblood of your car and, without it, your engine would suffer terrible damage. Even dirty motor oil can cause problems on your Ooltewah drives. Even with regular maintenance at Mtn. View Chevrolet, you should be checking your motor oil monthly at home in Dalton. Our service team is here to show you how to check car oil, as well as understand how long an oil change will take.

Why Check Your Car’s Oil Level?

If getting your oil changed on schedule, why should you check your car’s oil every month? When you check your oil monthly, you’re more likely to catch leaks before they become a problem that leaves you stranded on the road in Athens. Checking your oil monthly will also give you the opportunity to check it for debris or metal shavings. Debris is a sign that you probably will need to change your oil earlier than planned. Metal shavings are a bigger problem, as they’re a sign that an engine component is wearing down. If you see metal shavings in your oil, schedule service as soon as possible. 

Learn How to Check Car Oil Level

Checking your car’s oil is quick and easy. Some newer vehicles even have electronic oil monitors instead of traditional dipsticks. Check your owner’s manual to see what your vehicle has. If your car has an oil dipstick, here’s how to check your car oil level: 

1. Park your vehicle on level ground, turn off the engine, and let it cool. 
2. Open the vehicle’s hood and find the dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out of the engine and wipe any oil from the end of it. Inspect the oil that you wipe off for debris or metal shavings. 
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.

Your dipstick will indicate where the oil level should be. If your oil isn’t at the optimum level, you’ll need to add more. Check your owner’s manual to make sure you’re adding the correct type of oil. If your oil level is very low compared to the last time you checked it, that’s another sign that a professional should take a look. 

Save on Oil Changes and More with Mtn. View Chevrolet

Now that you know how to check car oil at home, you’re on your way to saving money on potentially costly repairs! Keep saving money on your auto maintenance when you use the service specials at Mtn. View Chevrolet. We want you to be able to keep your car in great condition at a great price!