It is essential to change your engine oil at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer. But how often should you check your oil level? The oil lubricates the engine’s internal moving parts, keeping them from wearing too quickly. It also helps keep the engine clean, by preventing dirt buildup, and helps keep it from overheating.
Checking the oil level is a quick, easy job.
In the days before oil level sensors, many drivers checked their oil at the dipstick at least once a week.
It only takes a minute to check and top off if necessary, and it might add years of reliable, powerful and economical driving to the life of your engine.
Make sure the car is parked on level ground. With the engine off, open the car’s hood and find the dipstick. Pull the dipstick out from the engine and wipe any oil off from its end. Then insert the dipstick back into its tube and push it all the way back in. Now pull out the dipstick and check the oil level again just to make sure.
Put the dipstick back, being careful that it does not touch anything and pick up engine dirt.
It is also important to inspect the engine oil condition. The color and consistency of the oil is indicative of its age. Oil will slowly change in color from a golden to brown, and finally to black as particulates from the engine and the internal combustion process get into the oil. Engine oil that is in good condition will look fairly clear like golden honey. Dark brown to black oil indicates the engine oil and oil filter need to be replaced. It is important to inspect the oil for any evidence of contamination and also for any metal particles which would indicate possible internal engine problems.
