Checking your vehicle’s engine oil is one of the simplest yet most important maintenance tasks you can do to keep your car running smoothly. Knowing how to check engine oil regularly helps prevent engine wear, overheating, and costly repairs caused by low or dirty oil. By understanding the proper oil dipstick level and following the correct steps for checking motor oil, you can quickly spot potential issues and ensure your engine stays properly lubricated for optimal performance and longevity.
For professional support and peace of mind, schedule an oil change in Houston with trusted experts.
Why Checking Engine Oil Is Important
Checking engine oil is important because it keeps your engine properly lubricated, reducing friction between moving parts and preventing premature wear. Maintaining the correct oil level also helps regulate engine temperature, ensuring the engine doesn’t overheat during operation.
Regular oil checks can alert you to leaks, contamination, or low oil levels early, helping you avoid costly engine damage and extend the overall life of your vehicle.
At Eric’s Car Care, our ASE-Certified Technicians provide professional oil services with precision and care. Plus, every service comes with our 36-month / 36,000-mile Tech Net warranty on parts and labor, so you can drive with confidence.
Whether you need routine maintenance or a full service, we’re your go-to experts for oil change Houston, TX.
What You Need to Check Engine Oil
To ensure accurate checking of oil in the car, you only need a few basic items and a couple of minutes. First, make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground and the engine is turned off and cool, as this gives a correct reading of the car oil level.
You’ll need these three items:
- Oil dipstick
- Clean cloth or paper towel
- Good lighting
How to Check Engine Oil?
Checking your engine oil is a quick process that takes only a few minutes but plays a major role in keeping your engine healthy. Follow these simple steps to check engine oil correctly and confidently.
Step 1 – Park on Level Ground and Turn Off the Engine
Start by parking your car on flat, level ground and turning off the engine. This is important because the oil needs to settle evenly inside the engine. When the car is level, the oil dipstick level you check later will be accurate and reliable.
Step 2 – Let the Engine Cool
Once the engine is off, give it 5–10 minutes to cool down. During this time, the oil drains back into the oil pan instead of clinging to hot engine parts. This cooling period prepares you for the next step and prevents a misleading reading that could make the oil appear higher or hide oil low on the dipstick.
Step 3 – Open the Hood
After the engine has cooled, open the hood using the interior release lever. Secure the hood properly so you can work comfortably. With the hood open, you now have clear access to the engine components you’ll need for checking the oil.
Step 4 – Locate the Oil Dipstick
Now that the engine bay is visible, look for the oil dipstick. It usually has a bright yellow or orange handle and an oil can symbol. Finding the dipstick sets you up for the most important part of the process, measuring the oil level.
Step 5 – Remove, Clean, and Reinsert the Dipstick
Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel. This removes any oil splashed from previous driving. Once clean, insert it fully back into the tube and pull it out again. This simple reset ensures the oil dipstick level you see next is accurate.
Step 6 – Check the Oil Level
With the dipstick out again, check where the oil sits between the minimum and maximum marks. If the oil is within this range, your engine is properly lubricated. If the oil is below the minimum line, it indicates that the oil is low on the dipstick, meaning it’s time to add oil soon.
At Eric’s Car Care, we often see engines damaged simply because drivers wait too long after noticing oil is low on the dipstick. A quick weekly oil check can prevent thousands of dollars in repairs.
Step 7 – Inspect Oil Color and Consistency
After confirming the level, take a moment to look at the oil itself. Clean oil should appear amber or light brown and feel smooth. If it looks dark, gritty, or milky, it may signal old oil or engine issues, bringing the entire oil-checking process to a complete and informed finish.
How to Know If You Need an Oil Change?
Knowing when to change your engine oil is key to keeping your car running smoothly. Here are the main indicators to watch for:
- Indicator #1: Oil Color and Consistency: The first sign is the condition of the oil itself. Fresh oil should be smooth and amber in color. If it looks very dark, thick, or gritty when you check it, it has lost its effectiveness and it’s time for an oil change.
- Indicator #2: Low Oil Levels: If the oil consistently reads below the recommended range on the oil dipstick level, even after topping it off, this indicates that your engine may need a full oil change rather than just a refill.
- Indicator #3: Engine Noises: Unusual sounds like knocking, ticking, or rough idling can indicate that the oil is old and not lubricating your engine properly.
- Indicator #4: Dashboard Warning Lights: Your car’s oil change or oil pressure light is another clear signal. When these lights turn on, it’s time to take action immediately.
- Indicator #5: Time or Mileage Interval: Even if your oil looks fine, following the manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule based on mileage or time ensures your engine stays clean, properly lubricated, and protected from wear.
By keeping an eye on these indicators, you can easily know when it’s time to perform an oil change and keep your engine in top condition.
Read Related: How Long Does an Oil Change Take?
Don’t Ignore Oil Low on Dipstick – Get Expert Help Today
Knowing how to check engine oil and keeping an eye on the oil dipstick level are two of the simplest ways to protect your engine. Regularly checking the motor oil ensures your car runs smoothly, avoids engine damage, and alerts you early if the oil is low on the dipstick becomes an issue.
For professional oil changes and expert car care, trust Eric’s Car Care. With years of experience and multiple Nextdoor Neighborhood FAVE Awards (2017–2024), our ASE-certified team ensures your vehicle stays in top condition, quick, reliable, and hassle-free. Visit Eric’s Car Care today and give your engine the care it deserves!