How to Check Your Oil

If your vehicle has an internal combustion engine, motor oil is one of the most important fluids in your vehicle. You should always make sure your vehicle has the proper amount if you want to protect the engine’s pistons and other moving parts, whether you’re sticking to the streets of Fort Collins or cruising on the streets or highways of Denver. Read on to discover more about how to check car oil from the service team at MINI of Loveland!

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

Some newer vehicles have electronic oil monitors, called an oil pressure monitoring system (OPMS) that don’t use traditional dipsticks. Start by checking your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations for checking the motor oil.

If you’re checking the oil manually, follow these steps:

1. Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground and that the engine is turned off and cold.
2. Open the vehicle’s hood and prop it open.
3. Find the dipstick.
4. Pull the dipstick out of the engine.
5. Wipe any oil from the end of it.
6. Re-insert the dipstick all the way back into its tube.
7. Pull out the dipstick.
8. Look at both sides to see where the level is.

Dipsticks always have indicators that show the proper oil level. If the top of your oil streak is between two marks or within a cross-hatched area, the level is good. If it isn’t, you’ll need to add more oil. You might see words that say “Full” or “Add” near these marks. Be sure to buy the grade of motor oil recommended by the owner’s manual. Then, remove the oil filler cap. Add oil a little at a time until the dipstick indicates you’ve reached the proper level.

Why Should You Check Your Car’s Oil Level?

The correct oil level is essential to your vehicle’s performance. Oil is necessary for improved fuel economy, acceleration, and the long life of your car.

Generally, manufacturers recommend oil changes at least twice yearly, depending on the model and how it’s driven. Oil checks should be performed at least once a month. This way, you can always feel confident that there are no leaks, and your car has enough oil for all your journeys through Boulder. Check the car oil level at home, giving you plenty of time and space to inspect for oil leaks and oil levels.

If you notice your car’s hood is hot to the touch (and you haven’t been traveling very far) or steam billowing out from under the hood, schedule a service appointment without delay. Your car could have an oil leak and the engine is overheating.

How to Reset the Oil Change Light

While each vehicle has a specific process for resetting the oil change light, the general process is the same. 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 because you won’t see the right oil change interval. Here’s how to reset an oil change light step-by-step:

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

At this point, the oil light should reset. If you have any questions regarding how to reset your oil change light, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team!

Contact Our Service Team to Keep Your Car in Prime Condition

Our service specials and expert advice can maintain your car for years to come. Contact us or call 970-744-5607 to set a service appointment. We want to be your go-to car service resource near Boulder! Want to save money on your service? Think about joining our complimentary maintenance program when you buy a new MINI to keep your car in top condition.