Wednesday, October 2

How to measure your vehicle's engine oil correctly

Ronald Ortega

He proper maintenance of your vehicle’s engine is essential to ensure optimal performance and prolong its useful life. One of the fundamental aspects of this care is to regularly check the engine oil level.

Correctly measure the Motor oil It’s a simple task that every driver should perform on a regular basis. Therefore, below we will explain the step-by-step procedure to Measure your vehicle’s engine oil level accurately.

advance preparation

Before measuring the oil, make sure the engine is off and the vehicle is on a level surface. This will ensure accurate results and prevent any risk of injury.

Locate the dipstick

The oil dipstick is usually located on the front or side of the engine, with an easy-grip plastic grip. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual if you are unsure of its exact location.

Remove the dipstick and clean it

Take the dipstick and pull it completely out of the tube. Use a clean rag or absorbent paper to clean it thoroughly and remove any previous oil residue. This will ensure an accurate reading of the current level.

Insert and remove the rod

Reinsert the dipstick into its tube until it is fully seated. Make sure you fit it correctly to get an exact measurement. Then slowly withdraw it again.

Watch the oil level

At the bottom of the rod you will find two marks or indicators: the minimum level and the maximum level. The oil should be between these two marks. Observe the point where the oil reaches on the dipstick.

Interpret the measurement

If the oil level is between the two marks, the level is adequate. However, if it is below the minimum mark, it is necessary to add more. On the other hand, if it exceeds the maximum mark, it will be necessary to drain some of the excess to avoid lubrication problems.

Add oil if necessary

If the measurement indicates the level is low, add gradually through the appropriate filler hole in the engine. Use a funnel to avoid spillage and be sure to use the type of oil recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.

Recheck the level

After adding oil, repeat the measurement process outlined above to ensure the level is within the correct range.

Remember that it is important to perform this check regularly, preferably every two weeks or before a long trip. Also, always keep in mind your vehicle manufacturer’s specific maintenance recommendations to ensure that your engine runs optimally.

Keep reading

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. How to know when your car battery is dying
. What happens in your vehicle if you take a long time to change the motor oil
. Overheating problems?: what you should do with your vehicle in those cases