How to Check Car Oil

How to check your car’s oil is the first step towards knowing when to replace your car’s oil, and we have the step-by-step guide below for Royal Oak drivers. Read more below to learn how to check the oil level in your Buick, GMC car!

How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

Many vehicles have traditional dipsticks, but some newer cars have electronic oil monitors that don’t use dipsticks. If you’re using a traditional dipstick, here’s how to check your car’s oil:

1. Park your vehicle on level ground and ensure that the engine is turned off and cold.
2. Open the vehicle’s hood and find the dipstick. If your vehicle doesn’t use a dipstick system, you won’t be able to follow this guide, and we recommend checking your owner’s manual for specific information on oil checks.
3. Pull the dipstick out and wipe any oil off of the end with a paper oil, rag, or equivalent.
4. Re-insert the dipstick all the way back into its tube, then pull it out again. Take a look at both sides to see where the level is.

Dipsticks always have some way of indicating the proper oil level for your vehicle. Look for something like two marks or a cross-hatched area. If the oil is within both marks or within the cross-hatched area, your oil level should be sufficient. If not, you’ll need more oil or even an oil change if it’s been long enough.

Why Check Your Car’s Oil Level Every So Often?

The why is as important as the how in checking your car’s oil. Oil degrades over time and doesn’t provide as much cushion for your engine. It can get mucky and sludgy over time, so it’s generally accepted to replace your car’s oil twice a year depending on the model, how often it’s driven, etc. Check your user’s manual for more specific information. Farmington Hills drivers can also always schedule service with our service center!

How to Reset the Oil Change Light in Your Car

You should only reset the oil change light if you’ve actually changed your oil. If you accidentally miss an oil change, it can damage your car in the long run.

• Turn all car systems off, but leave the engine running.
• Find the “reset” button or stick on the dashboard (it’s typically found near the speedometer and fuel gauge).
• Hold the button down until the oil change light begins to flash (the sign of resetting may differ per vehicle).
• Turn the ignition off, wait a few seconds, then turn your car back on.

The oil light should now be reset! If you’re noticing the light comes back on or that you’re experiencing other issues with your vehicle, other factors can be at play. We highly recommend bringing in your vehicle if this is the case.

Choose Ray Laethem Buick GMC, Inc. for Your Next Oil Change

Now you know how to check the oil level in your car and the importance of knowing how to check your car oil. If you still have questions about checking your vehicle’s oil or about our services, contact us today! We also have a great variety of service specials for Royal Oak drivers to take advantage of!