How Do I Check My Engine Oil Level?

One of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your engine is to check the oil level. Along with being vitally important, since a blown engine can result from operating the vehicle with no oil, it is a task that is simple and fast to do by yourself.

Follow the steps listed below to check the oil level:

• In order to get the most accurate reading, make sure that your vehicle is parked on a level surface.
  ·Prop the hood open safely and locate the brightly colored dipstick handle (usually orange) that has the word OIL on it.
• Remove the dipstick and wipe it off with a rag and then replace it back into the engine, being sure to push it all the way in.
• Remove the dipstick again. Do NOT turn it upside down when reading since this will cause the oil to run, and the reading will not be accurate. There will be two holes or lines on the bottom of the oil dipstick. Look to see where the dry section and the oily section meet. If the mark is in between the two holes or lines, then there is plenty of oil in your car.
• If the reading shows that the oil is below the lowest line or hole, you will need to add oil. Do this by adding in a liter of oil at a time, and checking after each addition until the mark falls in between the two lines or holes.

1 liter of oil for every 1,600 km is the consumption that is considered to be normal by most manufacturers. If you are using a greater amount of oil than this, it may be time to schedule an appointment for oil service, or engine service in the Greater Toronto Area. The team of service professionals at Gorrud's Auto in Milton, Ontario will thoroughly inspect your vehicles engine and determine if some preventative maintenance now will save you from major problems down the road.