How to Check Car Oil

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle, so it’s critical to keep an eye on the volume and quality of your oil. The oil in your engine works hard to lubricate all of the moving parts to prevent friction, overheating, and damage. So, learning how to check the oil level in your car is an essential part of automotive maintenance. If you’re ready to learn how to check car oil in your Cadillac garage, follow the steps offered by our service team below. 

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

Most newer vehicles are equipped with electronic oil monitors, meaning you won’t need to use a traditional dipstick to check your oil. Start by examining your owner’s manual to find recommendations on how to check car oil for your model. If you are able to check your oil manually with a dipstick, the steps here will teach you how:

1. Park your vehicle on level ground. Turn it off and allow it to cool. 
2. Open the hood of your vehicle and locate the dipstick. Your owner’s manual will explain how to find it if you’re unsure. 
3. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. 
4. Re-insert the dipstick back into its tube, then remove it again. 
5. Examine all sides to see the current volume. 
6. Your dipstick will have an indicator for the proper volume. If the oil streak is within the markings, you’re good to go. If not, you’ll need to add more oil. 
7. Slowly add the proper grade of oil until the volume is sufficient. 

Why Check Your Car’s Oil Level?

While you’ll want to check your oil level once a month and have it changed roughly every six months, you may wonder why you should bother checking at all. Engine oil is regularly overlooked despite the critical role it plays in automotive performance. Since it prevents overheating, you’ll want to ensure that your oil volume and quality are up to snuff. Routine checks will allow you to spot any irregularities and prevent major hazards. If you notice that your hood is hot to the touch or you spot smoke billowing from under the hood, pull over immediately. You’ll want to visit us for service right away.

How to Reset Oil Change Light

If you’ve opted for a DIY oil change, you’ll need to know how to reset the oil change light. While each model will have its own quirks, the general process is the same for most vehicles. It isimperative that you only reset your oil change light after properly servicing your vehicle, neglecting oil changes will lead to damage. 

How to Reset Oil Change Light: Step-by-Step:

• Turn off all of the systems in your car, but keep the engine running. 
• Find the “reset” button or stick on the dashboard, this is generally found near the speedometer and fuel gauge. 
• Hold the button down until the oil change light flashes (the sign that your light is resetting may differ per vehicle).
• Turn off the ignition, wait a moment, turn the car back on.
• Your oil change light should be reset!

Turn to Serra Nissan of Traverse City for Complete Car Care

Now that you know how to check the oil level in your car, you can ensure that your commute from Bellaire to Manistee will go off without a hitch. If you prefer to kick your feet up and let the pros handle your maintenance needs, schedule service with us today. If you have lingering questions about servicing your vehicle, contact us today for guidance.