How to Check Car Oil

Many drivers know that motor oil is the lifeblood of their Nissan vehicle, which is why it’s vital to ensure the right amount of oil is in there to protect the engine’s internal moving parts, whether you’re running errands in Rockwall or heading out on an out-of-state road trip. Learn more about how to check the oil level in a car from the service team at Nissan of Greenville.

How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car: Step-by-Step Guide

Some of the newer vehicles are equipped with electronic oil monitors that do not use traditional dipsticks. Start by referring to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations. If you’re checking the oil manually at your home, follow these steps below:

1. Make sure the vehicle is parked on level ground and that the engine is turned off and cold.
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.
4. Re-insert the dipstick back into its tube, then pull it out and look at both sides to see where the level is.

Dipsticks will have a way of indicating the correct oil level. If the top of your oil streak is between two marks or within a cross-hatched area, then the oil level is good. If not, more oil is needed. When buying your oil, be sure to purchase the grade that’s recommended in your owner’s manual, then flip the oil filler cap and add oil a little bit at a time until the dipstick shows that you have reached the proper level.

The Importance of Checking Your Oil Level

Even though the vehicle’s oil is overlooked quite often, having the right oil level is essential to your vehicle’s performance. It’s best to have your oil changed at least twice a year, depending on how much driving you do. Oil checks should be done at least once a month. Doing both ensures that you are confident that there are no leaks, and your vehicle has enough oil for all of your exciting trips through Royse City and beyond. With that said, if you notice that your vehicle’s hood is too hot to touch or there’s steam coming out, schedule a service appointment right away. There could be a leak, and that’s why the engine is overheating.

Learn How to Check Your Car Oil in Greenville

In addition to competitive prices, we also offer Commerce drivers a rotating selection of service specials and expert advice, as our service team is always ready to help. Schedule service with us today or contact us or additional assistance. Looking for more DIY car care info? Learn how to clean the inside of your windshield or check your transmission fluid today!