The thought of checking and/or topping up your oil might seem like a hassle or something only mechanics at your local garage should do, but it's actually a quick and simple task that anyone can handle.
Keeping an eye on your engine oil is one of the easiest yet most important ways to keep your car running smoothly.
Neglecting it can lead to engine damage, reduced performance, and costly repairs.
If you're not sure how to do it, this step-by-step guide will show you the right way to check and top up your engine oil.
Step 1: Park Your Car and Turn Off the Engine
Before doing anything, make sure your car is parked on flat, level ground.
If your vehicle is on an incline, the oil reading will be inaccurate, giving you a false sense of how much oil is actually in the engine.
Once parked, turn off the engine and let it sit for at least 5–10 minutes.
This allows the oil to settle in the sump, giving you a more precise reading when checking the dipstick.
If you check too soon, the oil may still be circulating and could lead to an incorrect measurement.