Why Checking Your Car Engine Oil Regularly Can Save You Thousands
It only takes a minute, but checking your engine oil regularly can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and ensure your car runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible. You should be checking your engine oil every couple of weeks to keep everything in top shape.
Think of engine oil as the lifeblood of your car’s engine. It keeps the engine clean and reduces friction, minimising wear and tear while improving performance and fuel efficiency.
Step 1: Prepare Your Car
Make sure you’re on level ground, and that the engine is cool. Avoid checking the oil right after you’ve been driving, as the engine oil needs to settle to give an accurate reading.
Step 2: Open the Bonnet
Next, open the bonnet by using the release lever, which is typically located on the driver’s side inside the car.
Exit the car and locate the safety latch under the front of the bonnet. Use this to lift the bonnet. Keep the bonnet open using the lever or hook mechanism found underneath. If you’re unsure of where this is, consult your car’s manual for guidance.
Step 3: Locate the Dipstick
Look for the engine oil dipstick under the bonnet. It often has a brightly coloured ring on the top and is usually labelled with “Engine Oil.” Twist it and pull it out. Wipe it clean with a paper towel or rag to remove any oil residue.
Step 4: Check the Oil Level
Examine the dipstick for the high and low marks, which will tell you where the oil level should be. Reinsert the dipstick back into the tube, wait a few seconds, and then pull it out again to check the oil level.
- If the oil level falls between the high and low marks, you’re good to go.
- If the oil is below the low mark, you’ll need to top it up right away.
Regularly checking your engine oil is a quick and easy task that helps maintain your car’s engine health, ensuring optimal performance and reducing long-term damage.
Need Help with Your Car’s Engine Oil?
If you need assistance or a bit of advice on how to check your engine oil, pop into one of our seven convenient locations. We’ll check your oil for you while you wait, and we can even show you how to do it yourself next time!
