How To Check Your Car’s Oil

Many drivers how important a routine oil change is to the life of your vehicle’s engine. In fact, motor oil is considered the lifeblood of your car, which is why it’s essential to know how to check the oil level in your car to keep the engine’s internal moving parts protected. A strong engine makes it safe to drive on the streets of the Madison area and beyond. It doesn’t matter if you need a Prius oil change, or a different Toyota vehicle needs an oil change, a routine oil change keeps your vehicle running smoothly.

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

Most new Toyota vehicles have electronic oil monitors instead of traditional dipsticks, so check your owner’s manual for the automaker’s recommendations.

If you’re checking the engine oil manually, follow the quick steps below:

1. Park the vehicle on level ground and make sure the car is turned off and the engine is cold.
2. Open the vehicle’s hood and find the dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out of the engine and wipe away any oil with a paper towel.
4. Re-insert the dipstick back into its tube, then remove the dipstick and look at both sides to check the levels.

Dipsticks will always be able to tell the correct oil level. If the top of the oil streak is between two marks or within a cross-hatched area, then the level is good. If not, you need to add more oil.

Make sure you purchase the grade recommended in the owner’s manual. Remove the oil cap, add oil a little at a time until the dipstick shows that you have reached the correct level, and you’re all set. Once finished, close the hood!

Let the Westbrook Toyota Service Team Keep Your Car in Prime Condition

Now that you know how to check car oil, visit the Westbrook Toyota service center in Westbrook. Our factory-trained technicians will work efficiently on your vehicle to ensure it’s working in the best possible condition. During your oil change, we can also check the transmission fluid and change the oil filter. Contact us today with any questions like how to disinfect a car’s interior, how to replace a key fob, or to schedule a service appointment. Before you stop by, browse our service specials and coupons so you can save on your next visit!