How to Check Car Oil

Motor oil keeps your Chrysler, Dodge, RAM, or Jeep running on the roads, so you should check on it from time to time. The oil should continue to protect all of the engine’s internal moving parts when you check on it diligently. Learn how to check the oil level in your car today with the service team at Sonia’s CDJR. If you have any questions, be sure to contact us! 

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

Some newer vehicles have electronic oil monitors that don’t use traditional dipsticks, so start by checking your owner’s manual for the automaker's recommendations. If you’re checking the oil manually, simply follow these steps:

1. Make sure the vehicle is parked on level ground and that the engine is turned off and cold.
2. Open the vehicle’s hood and find the dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out of the engine and wipe any oil from the end of it.
4. Re-insert the dipstick all the way back into its tube, then pull it out and look at both sides to see where the level is.

Dipsticks always have some way of indicating 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. Be sure to buy the grade recommended in the owner’s manual, remove the oil filler cap, then add oil a little at a time until the dipstick indicates you’ve reached the proper level.

Why Check Your Car's Oil Level?

Although oil is often overlooked, the right oil level is absolutely essential to your vehicle's performance. Generally, oil changes are recommended 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 in the area. That being said, if you notice your car's hood is hot to the touch 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. 

What are the Signs You Need an Oil Change? 

When you're due for an oil change, you'll notice the following red flags, which indicate you need oil service right away: 

• Excessive vehicle exhaust 
• Falling oil level 
• Noticeable engine noise 
• Oil texture is gritty 
• Oil level is low 
• Illuminated "check engine" light 
• Shaking while idling 
• Ticking noises during start-up 

Get the Best Care for Your CDJR Car from Sonia’s CDJR

You are just one step away from proper care and maintenance for your vehicle in Orange, MA! Just schedule your visit online and be sure to check out our coupons, so you can save on your visit as well.