How to Check Car Oil

Knowing how to check car oil is an important skill for every Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT, Wagoneer driver. While most new vehicles come with an automatic oil monitoring system, there’s always the possibility that it might not read accurately. If you are driving an older vehicle, you might also need to check the oil the old-fashioned way. Either way, this guide from Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT will help you learn how to check the oil level in your car. That way, you never risk running on empty, and your engine is properly cared for, keeping your car on the road for many years to come. And if you find you’re due for an oil change, schedule your service appointment at Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT and our experts will do the rest. 

Learn How to Check Oil Level in Your Car

Most new vehicles come with an automatic oil monitoring system that will alert you when it is time for your next oil change with a light on the dashboard. However, in the event that you do not have an oil monitoring system, or you drive an older vehicle, you will want to be able to read a dipstick yourself.

How to check oil level manually in four steps:

1. Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground and the engine is completely off.
2. Open and secure the vehicle’s hood, so you can locate the dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out and wipe the end with the oil on a clean paper towel or cloth.
4. Re-insert the dipstick and remove it again—this time to check the level and consistency of the oil.

To know whether you need to add oil, examine the dipstick for a notch indicating the ideal level. If the oil is low, you may add more oil prior to your next oil change. Make sure to check your owner’s manual to know which type of oil to use in your engine and if you’re unsure, contact the service department at Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT, and we’d be happy to help. You should also examine the color and consistency of the oil, which should be black or brown and on the thick side. If it appears milky or as though it has particles in it, you may want to see a mechanic for further diagnosis.

Protect your Vehicle: Know How to Check Car Oil between Services

Regular oil changes are essential to keeping your vehicle in top shape, and it is recommended that you get an oil change every six months or every 7,500 to 10,000 miles if you drive a newer vehicle. Checking the oil yourself every month or so ensures that you catch any leaks before the oil runs out and potentially damages the engine, and so that you can be sure your car is running properly between service appointments. If you notice any issues with the amount or quality of the oil, don’t delay! Make a service appointment with the certified technicians at Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT and avoid potential problems down the road in Aztec or Bloomfield.

How to Reset Oil Change Light

When you bring your vehicle in for service at Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT, we guarantee that your car receives the optimal oil for its engine, the service is done properly, and the oil change light is reset. We can also go ahead and schedule your next service to make sure there isn’t a lapse between maintenance intervals. In the event that you need to reset the oil light yourself, you can check your owner’s manual for a how-to or follow our guide below:

How to Reset Oil Change Light: 

• Put your vehicle in park and turn the ignition switch or start button so that the electronics and indicators turn on, but the engine is off.
• Place your foot on the gas pedal and slowly push down and gently release three times (remember, with the engine off!).
• On your instrument cluster, the light should turn off.
• Turn the vehicle completely off and restart to see if the engine light remains off.

If, for some reason, your manual reset doesn’t work, your vehicle may require a reset through the electronic VIC display on the dashboard using the controls on the center console. If you drive a Honda or Toyota, try holding down the trip button on the dashboard. 

Still having issues? Contact Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT for all of your service needs.

Schedule Your Next Service at Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT

Take the guesswork out of checking your car oil or trying to perform an oil change yourself. Contact the service department at Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT and have your car running in top shape with the work of our certified technicians. There are tons of reasons to choose us for service in Farmington.

We offer:

• Free Wifi
• Saturday Service
• Spanish Speaking
• Early Bird Hours
• Rentals
• Shuttle Service
• Express Lube
• Easy Online Scheduling

What are you waiting for? See our coupons and service hours and schedule your next maintenance at Advantage Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep FIAT today by calling 505-421-3764.