You've probably heard that motor oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle, and while it might sound a bit extreme, it's true. Most drivers know how often they should change their oil, but did you know that you really should be checking your oil once a month or so to ensure your ride is in top shape for life in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids? You likely already know that checking your oil involves the dipstick, but there are a few key points to remember, and the service team at McGrath Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram is here to help!
Learn How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car
Before we get started, check your owner's manual. Some vehicles have electronic oil monitors, and your manual will let you know what to do there. If you've got a traditional dipstick, keep reading to learn how to check your oil:
- Ensure you're parked on level ground and your engine is off.
- These days, you can read many oil levels even if the engine hasn't cooled down yet, but for your safety, it's usually best to let it cool a bit.
- Open your hood and locate the dipstick. It usually has a yellow handle, sometimes with the symbol of an oil can on it.
- Pull the dipstick out of the engine, but don't read it yet. You want to get an accurate reading of what the oil levels are right now, and to do that, you'll need to clean the dipstick first.
- After you've wiped the dipstick off, re-insert it all the way back in, then pull it out and read where the level is.
Every dipstick will have a way of showing you what the proper level of oil is. On most, you'll find two lines with a hashed section in between, and as long as your oil level is in the hashed section, you're in good shape to return to the streets of Waterloo or Anamosa.
Need to add oil? Be sure to use the right kind, and if you don't know the kind of oil in your vehicle right now, it might be best to let one of our service experts help.
Why Check Your Car's Oil Level?
Checking your oil level is a quick look into whether your car might be leaking or burning oil, either of which is no fun for you. By doing the task monthly, you're opening up the hood and taking a peek at your engine every month, which can give you some insights if something is a bit off. You may even notice a problem before it becomes a repair.
How to Reset Oil Change Light
Some newer vehicles have an oil change light, and it doesn't always get reset right away. If you're doing your own oil changes, you might want to rest this light so you know when you're due for the next one. We recommend reaching out to your service center for this, though, just to be sure there's not something else wrong. And if someone else changed your oil and the light has come back on, drop in and let us take a look.
Let the McGrath Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Service Team Keep Your Car in Prime Condition
Offering service specials and expert advice, our service team is always ready to help. Schedule service with us today or contact us online for further assistance. We hope to be your go-to car service resource near Waterloo!