As easy as checking your engine oil sounds, it is one of the most uncommon things car owners do to ensure their car’s longevity and optimal performance. The simple reason being they’re not acquainted with the process of checking oil levels.
A common mistake made by many modern car owners is that they rely on the oil monitoring system available in their cars. Experts have stated that these systems are programmed to notify the car owner about changing the engine oil every nine to eleven thousand kilometers, (source). However, given the weather of Middle Eastern countries such as the U.A.E, it is imperative that you check your oil levels at least once a month to ensure your car’s optimal performance, and to mitigate any potential damage to the car’s engine (source).
So if you are someone who does not know how to check your oil engines by yourself, this article is for you.
In this article, specialists from Gargash Auto have recommended these 8 steps to check your car’s engine oil by yourself. So the next time you’re waiting while refueling your car at a petrol-pump station, be sure to pop this article out and follow the steps carefully.
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- Use a lint-free piece of cloth
Using an old piece of fabric or even a t-shirt that does not have threads hanging out is just perfect or this
2. Go through the owner’s manual
In case you are unaware of where the dipstick is kept, you can locate it using the owner’s manual, or just ask an employee from the petrol-pump station to identify it for you.
3. Ensure that your car is warmed up
To get accurate results, your car’s engine should be warmed up. A good time to check your engine oil is when you’ve gone to the nearest supermarket or parked your car at home after work.
4. Turn off your car
For your safety, turn off the car before you begin the process of checking the engine oil. Wait for some time to allow the engine to cool down, twenty minutes is an ideal time to wait for (source: Firestone).
5. Open your car’s hood
Pop open your car’s hood to initiate the process. Be mindful that every car’s hood opens differently, so you can either go through the owner’s manual or ask someone to assist you.
6. Find the Dipstick
The dipstick is normally placed on the left side of the engine. It has a yellow or orange handle which is clearly visible. Upon pulling the dipstick, you will notice a long piece of metal sliding out.
7. Wipe the dipstick and insert it again
Using the piece of cloth, clean off the dipstick and put it back in. Ensure that you have inserted it all the way in.
8. Take the dipstick out and check the oil level
Remove the dipstick again and observe its end. The markings on a dipstick may vary from one model to another. Some may have a mark saying ‘full’ whereas others will have an area that is textured to represent the oil’s capacity. The oil should appear in an amber or a honey-yellow colour. You should be able to tell if the level of your car’s oil is low or not.
Remember, your car’s engine can face serious damage if the oil level is low, if so, refill it immediately.
Moreover, if the texture of the oil is gritty, or if it has a dark color, you should change it immediately to prevent any damage to your car.
Alternatively, you can visit Gargash Auto to get your oil levels checked for free if you don’t wish to get your hands dirty!
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9-YT9RiM84 https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/how-to-check-your-oil/
https://blog.firestonecompleteautocare.com/oil-change/how-to-check-your-oil/#:~:text=Park%20your%20car%20on%20level,settle%20in%20the%20oil%20pan.