It’s easy to forget to check your engine oil level—it’s not something most of us think about daily. But running low on engine oil is more than just a small slip-up; it can lead to serious and expensive engine problems if left unchecked.
Engine oil is essential because it keeps all the moving parts of your engine running smoothly. When it’s low, friction increases, causing wear and tear that can eventually damage your engine.
What color is normal for engine oil?
Engine oil color can tell you a lot about how it’s doing its job. Fresh, new engine oil starts off a clear, golden color, similar to syrup. But unlike syrup, this liquid is all about keeping your engine running smoothly by lubricating, cooling, and cleaning the internal parts.
Once oil starts circulating in your engine, it quickly picks up dirt and particles, so it won’t stay golden for long. It often turns a dark brown color, and that change can look a bit worrying at first.
But here’s the reassuring part: darkening is completely normal and just means the oil is doing what it should—capturing dirt and particles to prevent them from clogging up the engine.
Over time, however, if the oil turns black especially if it looks thick or gritty, it might be time for an oil change. Checking the oil’s color during regular maintenance is an easy way to make sure your engine is getting the clean lubrication it needs without waiting until something goes wrong.
Luckily, checking your oil is one of the simplest maintenance steps you can do, even if you’re not a car expert. Regular oil checks can make a big difference in how your car runs and how long it lasts.
To help you keep your car’s fluid levels in check and running smoothly, we’ve put together this quick and easy guide on how to check your engine oil:
1. Park on Level Ground and Cool the Engine
First, make sure your car is parked on a flat surface. This helps you get an accurate reading. Turn off the engine and let it cool down if you’ve been driving. Checking oil in a hot engine can give you an inaccurate reading and even be a little dangerous.
2. Open the Bonnet and Find the Dipstick
Pop the hood and locate the dipstick, which is a thin metal rod, often with a brightly colored handle. If you’re not sure where to look, your car’s user manual will have a diagram showing its location. Note: Some modern cars may not have a physical dipstick but instead rely on electronic oil monitors, so double-check your manual.
3. Remove and Wipe the Dipstick
Gently pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel. This clears off any oil and gives you a clear surface for an accurate reading. You’ll notice two marks on the dipstick, usually labeled “Min” and “Max” or shown as lines or dots, indicating the ideal range for your oil level.
4. Reinsert and Remove the Dipstick for an Accurate Reading
Slide the dipstick back into its tube, pushing it all the way in. Wait a moment, then pull it back out and look at the oil level. If the oil line falls between the Min and Max marks, you’re good to go! If it’s halfway or lower, you might want to consider topping it up. If it’s below the minimum mark, you’ll need to add oil.
5. Add Oil if Needed
If it’s time to top up, grab the right type of oil for your engine. (Your car manual will also have this info.) Find the oil cap, usually marked with a small oil can symbol, twist it off, and carefully add a little oil at a time. Pour slowly and recheck the level with the dipstick to make sure you don’t overfill, which can be harmful to the engine.
6. Secure Everything and Clean Up
Once you’ve reached the right oil level, replace the oil cap and dipstick securely. Wipe away any spills, as leftover oil can attract dirt or even cause a bit of a burning smell when the engine heats up.
And that’s it! Checking your oil takes just a few minutes but helps protect your engine from serious wear and tear.
When to Check Your Oil?
Knowing when to check your oil level can keep your car running smoothly and help you avoid big repair costs down the line. Car manufacturers generally suggest changing your oil every 12 months or around 9,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, just waiting until your next oil change isn’t always the best idea—regular checks can help you catch any issues early and keep your engine in top shape.
Aim to check your oil level every few weeks, especially if you’re driving often. Checking before long road trips or after periods of heavy driving (like a hot summer day or a busy work week) is also a good idea. Regular checks ensure you’re keeping an eye on any oil usage your car might have, even between oil changes.
Always check your oil when the engine is cool or has been off for at least 10 minutes. This pause lets the oil settle back into the pan, giving you a more accurate reading. Plus, it’s safer since you won’t risk burning your hand on a hot engine.
Read Also: A Complete Guide to Cleaning Your Car’s Air Filter!
Making these quick checks a habit helps keep your car safe, reliable, and ready for wherever the road takes you.
