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If there's no oil in your vehicle, it won't run for long. You need always to make sure you have the right amount, the right type, at the right time. Every driver should know how to examine their oil to achieve peak engine performance and longevity. Don't know how? Kwik Kar Auto Repair has your back. Here is a step-by-step overview of how to inspect your engine oil.
Step 1 - Park your car on a flat surface to ensure you get an accurate reading. Then turn off the engine and wait 10 to 15 minutes for your vehicle to cool down.
Step 2 - Next, you can proceed to pop the hood open and locate the oil dipstick. It usually has a red, orange, or yellow plastic tab on it. However, you can always refer to your owner's manual for additional help.
Step 3 - Remove the dipstick. It's not always necessary to wear gloves, but you have the option to do so to keep your hands clean.
Step 4 - Wipe the dipstick (from the handle to the tip) with a clean rag or paper towel. Spoiler alert: the reading you get from the first pull is not accurate.
Step 5 - Reinsert the dipstick all the way in, and then remove it again.
Step 6 - Evaluate the level of oil on both sides of the dipstick. There will be marked lines toward the bottom of the stick to tell you if the oil is low, just right, or too high. When evaluating your oil, look at the level, color, and consistency. You should also check for contaminants. Motor oil gets contaminated in several ways, including debris from the air, tiny metal shavings from the engine, and combustion by-products.
Step 7 - Now that you are done, clean the dipstick off again and put it back in its spot. Ensure it is fully inserted, and close the hood.
Step 8 - If your oil analysis showed that your engine oil is low, off-colored, or has a strange consistency, please visit our expert team at Kwik Kar Auto Repair.
Checking your oil and changing it on time is the best thing you can do for your engine as a vehicle owner. Not only will your engine get the proper care and attention it needs, but you'll also have peace of mind that your engine will run smoothly. Give us a call or visit our shop today!