When you know how to check your car’s oil, you can dramatically reduce the risk posed by leaks and low levels. Learning how to check the oil level in a car only takes a moment, and better yet: the process itself is as easy as one, two, three! We’ve laid out everything you need to know below.
How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car with a Dipstick
Although not all new models include a dipstick, it still pays to learn how to use one. Here’s how it’s done:
- Park the vehicle on level ground and give the engine plenty of time to cool. If you want to get an accurate reading, you need all the oil to settle back into the pan.
- The dipstick is located under the hood, usually just to the right or the left of the engine block.
- Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean. Then insert it back into the sheath.
- Pull the dipstick out once more and read the level. You should see a “full” line or a cross-hatched area that indicates where your level should be. If it’s low, add a little bit more oil slowly.
Using the right kind of oil is just as important as ensuring that your oil level is where it should be. Check your owner’s manual, or give us a call at (877) 673-6162 if you’re uncertain. You can always find what you’re looking for at our parts department near Rumson.
How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car with an Electronic Oil Monitor
Did you know that most new Jaguar vehicles include an electronic oil monitor? This technology allows you to check the oil level without ever getting your hands dirty:
- Turn off your car and wait for all the oil to settle back into the pan. Ten minutes should do the trick.
- Turn your key to position one: ”Accessory Mode”. Your lights should come on, but you don’t want to start the engine.
- Use your vehicle’s infotainment display to navigate through the menus.
- Select “Oil Level” and give the system a few moments to run.
If the system tells you that more oil is needed, schedule service with our dealership or add a little bit more oil using a funnel! Even if your vehicle doesn’t have a dipstick, you can locate the oil cap near the engine.
Why Check Your Car’s Oil Level?
Why is it so important to know how to check the oil level in a car? Just for starters, motor oil is essential to your vehicle’s performance. Without the right amount of oil, your vehicle is at risk of overheating, and the moving metal components in your vehicle may be subject to excess wear and tear. Checking at least once per month is the best way to eliminate the risk of irreversible, long-term damage–but keep in mind that regular oil checks are no substitute for regular oil changes! That service should still be scheduled at least once or twice per year.
If you see smoke billowing from under the hood, or if your hood is hot to the touch, you shouldn’t open it up and check the level! Instead, bring your vehicle to our service center as quickly as possible! It’s usually better to call a tow truck than it is to drive in yourself.
Jaguar Monmouth Authorized Service Will Keep You On the Road!
If you’re near Colts Neck or Red Bank, rely on a team you can trust for all things related to oil service and oil changes! Start exploring our service specials to save on your next visit, or continue your research with more of our top DIY car care tips today.
