How Do I Accurately Check My Vehicle’s Oil?

The motor oil in your vehicle is what keeps your engine running, so knowing how to check your oil level is very important. Keeping an eye on it regularly can help you catch if there is anything wrong and if the levels are getting too low too quickly. Motor oil lubricates the engine’s internal moving pieces so those pieces do not break down too quickly. It also helps to keep your engine clean, prevents overheating, and prevents dirt build-up.

Checking Your Engine’s Oil

Before you even start, your vehicle must be on even ground and not slanting. This will allow you to get an accurate read on the level of your oil. Be sure the engine is off and cooled down. Have some paper towels nearby.

When you open the hood, just locate the dipstick (which is generally in a bright color like yellow or orange) and pull it out. Use your paper towel to wipe the dipstick instead of reading the level since it will not be accurate. Then insert it into the tank again, and then pull it out once more. The oil sitting on the dipstick should show you the level your tank is at and if you need to add any oil. If it is below the minimum mark, add a small amount of oil (approved by your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines) and see if it levels out. If you re-check and it still shows lower than the minimum mark, add more until it is sufficient but not overfilled. This could mean your vehicle is burning too much oil or leaking and needs to be evaluated by a mechanic.

Checking the color of the oil is also important the first time you remove the dipstick. Oil should be a dark color like brown or black. If there is a lighter appearance or a milkiness, you may have coolant leaking into your engine and mixing, which means you need to schedule a service appointment. You want to check for metal particles too – it may indicate an internal engine issue you may not have known about.

Bring Your Subaru Into Thelen Subaru in Michigan

If you’ve followed these steps and find that your Subaru has a potential issue, schedule an appointment with our expert service center! Thelen Subaru in Bay City, Michigan, employs a knowledgeable team of skilled mechanics that can assist you with oil changes and other potential engine issues. Schedule your service appointment today!

(Photo Credit: iStock)

Tags: Bay City, Michigan, Oil Change, Thelen Subaru
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