How to Inspect Your Oil on the Dipstick

Whether you are a car enthusiast or not, everyone must learn how to check their engine oil using the dipstick. If you have a hard time locating the dipstick, please refer to your owner’s manual. We highly recommend you take several minutes each month to examine your engine oil closely. Incorporating this into your routine can help you better understand your engine performance and plan your following oil change. Here are the four aspects of your motor oil you should check out!

LEVEL

First and foremost, you need to ensure you have enough oil in your oil pan. The dipstick has lines on it to show you the ideal range for your vehicle. If it is below the indicated markings, then you should add oil to it right away. It would help if you also had it inspected by a professional to ensure there are no leaks.

COLOR

Fresh oil should be a light brown/golden color. If your engine oil looks unusual, discolored, or dirty in any way, then it’s probably time for an oil change. If it looks milky or white, then you may have had radiator coolant escape into the pan. This needs to be corrected immediately to avoid damage.

CONSISTENCY

Besides oil color, you should also note the texture of the lube. Good, effective oil should be smooth, translucent, and dense. If the liquid seems thick or sticky, you probably need to change it soon.

SMELL

Motor oil usually has a neutral scent that may vary depending on what type or brand of oil is used. Though, if it smells scorched or strong like gasoline, it could indicate that there’s a leak somewhere in the system.

Overall, it’s pretty simple to inspect your oil. If your BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, or Land Rover needs an oil change, please call us at (512) 375-3601or visit Terry Sayther Automotive.