1. Read the dipstick

    Between the two marks

    Near the bottom mark, add a little. Never fill above the top one.

  2. Spare quart

    1 quart + a funnel in the trunk

    So a low oil warning on a long drive is an easy stop.

  3. Old oil

    Sealed jug to a drop-off

    Many auto parts stores take used oil. Never pour it down a drain.

Check your oil level

How to · With motor oil

Check your oil level

5 minutesOnce a monthEasy

Steps

  1. 1Park on level ground, turn off the engine and wait about 10 minutes so the oil settles and the engine cools. Follow your manual if it says otherwise.
  2. 2Open the hood, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, push it all the way back in, then pull it out again.
  3. 3Read the level. It should sit between the two marks. If it's near the bottom one, add a little oil through the filler cap with the funnel.
  4. 4Wait a minute and check again, and never fill above the top mark. Put the cap and dipstick back firmly and wipe up any drips.

  • The number on the bottle

    The viscosity, like 5W-30, must match your owner's manual. The first number is for cold starts, the second for running hot.

  • Synthetic or conventional

    Synthetic lasts longer and protects better in very hot or cold weather. Use what your manual asks for.

  • The certification mark

    Look for the API starburst or donut symbol on the bottle. It shows the oil meets current standards.