How to Check & Top Up Engine Oil | Step by Step Guide
Overview
A bit of oil use between services is often nothing to be concerned about. Even new cars are known to use a little. The serious problem comes when you neglect regular checks and top ups. To keep it running super; here’s how to check oil and top it up in 3 simple steps.
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How to check oil for your car
Each car will require a different grade of oil. This can even change as your car ages and the engine wears. The easiest way to ensure you grab the right oil is by using the my garage feature on the Supercheap Auto website. Enter your rego and search for oil to see products suitable for your car.
Steps
Step 1: Park up and locate the dipstick
You want to be parked on a level surface, and the engine should be cold. An engine that has just been run should sit for 5 minutes to allow the oil to drain back into the sump. And of course, be careful not to burn yourself under there.
Where to check oil in car
Broadly speaking, it’s under the bonnet. More specifically you’re looking for a small pull handle going down into the engine block. Often it will be yellow and may have ‘oil’ written on it, or maybe a symbol. If in doubt; check your owner’s manual.
Step 2: How to Check Oil
Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and poke it all the way back in. This ensures you have an accurate reading.
Now pull the dipstick again. If your oil level sits near the high mark, you’re super! If it’s nearer to the middle or down near the low mark, it’s time for a top up. If you don’t see ANYTHING on the dipstick; you’ll need a BIIIIIIG top up!
You can learn a lot from the colour of your oil as well. In a petrol vehicle light honey colour says your oil is nice and fresh. If it’s black and dirty, you’re due for an oil and filter change. If you’re considering an oil change, ask a team member at your local Supercheap Auto store about our FREE oil recycling program.
If it’s milky, that’s NOT good. This means water is in your engine oil. It might be a good idea to see a mechanic about that one.
Step 3: Topping up your oil
So you know how to check oil in your vehicle. Now it’s time to top it up. Grab that funnel and poke it into your oil filler. Usually the cap on top of the engine. Then pour some of the engine oil.
Getting your oil from low to high on your dipstick usually takes just under a litre of oil. This differs between vehicles of course, so go bit by bit. You don’t want to overfill your engine, this will create a new set of problems.
After each pour, allow a couple of minutes for the oil to drain through the engine so you get an accurate measurement on the dipstick.
Tips
Well hopefully that went smoothly. And now your car will too. Your engine oil should be checked every month, more often if you do a lot of driving. You can find everything you need to check, top up, and even change the oil yourself with the help of Supercheap Auto and our SUPER DIY series.
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