How to Check Car Oil

All internal combustion engines need oil changes every 6,000 to 10,000 miles. In between oil changes, we encourage you to check the oil level once a month as part of your pre-owned vehicle’s regular maintenance. This is to ensure your vehicle has enough oil for the pistons to move efficiently on every drive in Greenacres.

Find out how to check the oil level in a car with our easy-to-follow guide from the service team at Al Packer Ford Royal Palm Beach. After reading our step-by-step instructions on how to check a car’s oil, you’ll be doing this like a pro!

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

Some modern vehicles, like new Fords made after 2016 with intelligent oil life monitoring (IOLM), have electronic oil monitors. They may not use traditional dipsticks. Start by checking your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you have an older vehicle, you might need to check the oil manually once a month.

See how to check the oil level in your car by following these simple steps:

1. Make sure the vehicle is parked on level ground.
2. Turn off the engine.
3. Make sure the engine is cold.
4. Open the vehicle’s hood.
5. Find the dipstick, which is usually yellow or perhaps orange.
6. Pull the dipstick out of the engine.
7. Wipe any oil from the end of the dipstick.
8. Re-insert the dipstick all the way back into its tube.
9. Pull the dipstick out.
10. Look at both sides of the dipstick.
11. See where the oil level is.

Dipsticks use markings on the thin metal rod to indicate the correct oil level. If the top of your oil streak is between two marks or within a cross-hatched area, the oil level is good. If it isn’t, you’ll need to add more oil. If the oil is dark, it’s time for an oil change at our service center!

If you just add oil before getting an oil change, this is very easy.

1. Purchase the grade of oil recommended in the owner’s manual
2. Remove the oil filler cap.
3. Add oil a little at a time.
4. Look at the dipstick until it indicates you’ve reached the proper level after each addition.
5. Try not to overfill your engine with too much oil.

We recommend an oil change twice a year for a new Ford vehicle. If your oil level is low, your vehicle might overheat on West Palm Beach roads and cause permanent damage.

Get Your Oil Changed in Royal Palm Beach

If you need an oil change that’s convenient for your time and schedule, contact us or call 561-220-6333. Our quick lane service near Wellington can help you with regular oil changes for your vehicle!