Automobile Repair/Checking the oil level

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Cars, light vans and trucks have similar engines so the oil level verification procedures are similar.

An engine will have an oil filler cap, usually on the very top of the engine and easily accessible from the hood or bonnet of the vehicle.

The oil dipstick is the main indicator of oil level. To check the level, ensure that the motor is turned off, locate the dipstick and pull the stick out of the housing. This stick will be quite long because it needs to reach down to the bottom of the engine.

After the engine has been running, the dipstick will be covered in oil. You need to clean it with a clean rag or kitchen paper. Do not use a dirty rag because this may allow dirt to enter the engine and damage the motor.

The dipstick will have marks that indicate the lower, upper and possibly the ideal oil levels. Not enough oil will cause damage to the engine from overheating and excessive wear resulting in possible destruction of the engine. Too much oil can seriously damage the engine because oil is incompressible and a large volume of it can stop the motor components from rotating correctly.

If you need to add engine oil, remove the oil filler cap as shown.

When the cap has been removed, add enough oil to the motor to ensure that the level is between the two level indicator marks.

Add the oil about a pint or half a litre at a time and check the level by using the dip-stick.