How to Check Car Oil

Keeping your vehicle in proper working order is essential for those who drive in and around Bakersfield, especially if you count on your car as the daily driver. All vehicles require motor oil to run effectively to avoid getting stranded on the side of the road. To ensure you don’t end up in this situation, you’ll need to know how to check car oil. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps so you can learn how to check car the oil level in your car. If you’d rather have the pros handle it, you’re always welcome to schedule service with our expert maintenance team at Delano Chevrolet GMC. Keep reading to find out how to check the oil level in your car. 

How to Check Oil Level In Your Car

Whether you have an older model vehicle with a dipstick or a newer one with an electronic oil monitor, you should be able to check the oil level in your car. Here’s a step-by-step list to walk you through the entire process: 

For those Porterville drivers with newer models, you can check the oil life at all times using the digital readings on your dashboard. However, it still helps to know how to check car oil manually, in the event the digital output faults somehow. 

1. Start by parking on a level plane and turning off the engine. 
2. Allow the vehicle to cool after running for an extended period. 
3. Open the hood and locate the dipstick in front of the engine. 
4. Remove it and use a clean rag to wipe off any excess oil. 
5. Push the dipstick back into the tube, wait a few seconds, and then pull it back out.
6. Examine both sides and note where the oil level is compared to the dipstick markings.
7. It’s recommended to have routine service performed at Delano Chevrolet GMC to ensure your vehicle is running in top condition.

Why is Checking Car Oil Important? 

Having the right amount of oil in your car is essential to keep your engine running smoothly. Generally, oil should be changed every 5,000 to 7,000 miles if using synthetic oil or twice per year, whichever comes first. If you use standard oil, it should be changed every 3,000 to 4,000 miles. To check your oil level, locate the dipstick and observe the markings. There are usually two notches – one above a cross-hatched area and the other below. The oil should be at or above the top marking. If it’s low, use the manufacturer’s suggested oil and add one quart at a time until it reaches the proper level.

How to Reset the Oil Change Light 

If your oil light turns on during the process, resetting it is pretty simple. All you have to do is turn off all the systems in your car, leaving the engine running. Then, find the “reset” button or stick on the dashboard (typically near the speedometer and fuel gauge). Hold the button down until the oil change light begins to flash. Turn the ignition off, wait a few seconds, and turn your car back on. If you complete the steps properly, the light should turn off and you’re good until the next oil change.

Get the Help You Need at Delano Chevrolet GMC 

If you’re in the Tulare area, don’t forget about our service specials, including oil change coupons. Do you prefer to handle your oil changes? Check out our parts department and pick up your oil and filter. Otherwise, schedule service and let one of our technicians get you in, out, and on your way.