How to check oil in a car

It’s a good idea to check your engine oil (and other vehicle fluids) at least once a month, if not more often.

Making sure your vehicle’s running fluids are topped up is essential to the health and longevity of your car.

If you’re not sure how, keep reading.

Make sure your vehicle is parked in a safe location on a level surface with the engine switched off and the handbrake on. If the engine has been running, be sure to let it cool down before touching anything.

Locate the engine oil dipstick – it’s usually easily visible with a red or yellow handle. If you can’t find it, consult your owner’s manual.

Grab a clean, light-coloured rag or piece of paper towel and pull the dipstick out of its housing, carefully, so you don’t fling oil everywhere.

Wipe the end of the dipstick clean with the rag or towel, checking where the ‘empty’ and ‘full’ markings are, and then re-insert it.

Pull it back out again slowly and check the oil level and colour on the end of the stick. If it’s low, top it up with the correct oil (check owner’s manual) via the engine oil filler hole.

If the colour of the oil on the dipstick is anything other than a golden-honey colour, it could mean it’s time for an oil change. If you’re unsure, speak to your mechanic or service centre.

Now is a good time to check your vehicle’s other fluids: brake fluid, windscreen washer water, coolant etc. For more information on how to check these, click here.