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In regular intervals or before long journeys, it makes sense to check the oil level of your car. Read this article to find out what you should pay attention to and how best to proceed.
Checking the oil level: This is what you should look out for
You should check the oil level of your car at regular intervals – after all, an engine needs appropriate oil to function. During or before the check, it is particularly important to pay attention to two aspects.
- Car should be on level ground: To check the oil level correctly, your car must be on a level surface.
- Engine should be warm: Opinions differ on this question. However, the advantages seem to outweigh the disadvantages if the engine is warm. But wait a short time after you have switched off the engine – this allows the oil to collect in the sump.
Check oil level: This is how you should proceed
To check the oil level, you only need the dipstick – this is usually located in the engine compartment near the filler neck. You should then follow the steps below:
- Pull the dipstick out of the holder and wipe it clean with a paper towel.
- Finally, insert the rod into the opening again. Make sure that the rod is inserted into the opening as far as it will go.
- Now pull the dipstick out again and see how much oil is in the sump. On the rod you will see two markings with the words “Min” and “Max” – these mark the minimum and maximum amount.
- If the oil level is between the two marks, it is within the normal range – then everything is OK.
- If the oil level is below the minimum mark, you need to add some oil. The best way to do this is with a funnel.
- On cars with electronic measurement, the oil level can be read with the help of the on-board computer.
