How to Check the Oil Level In Your Car

Engine oil, motor oil, or as its sometimes simply referred to, oil, is a vastly important component of any car’s normal functioning. Engine oil provides the proper level of lubrication so that internal components like pistons, valve stems, cylinder bores, and more, can all interact during the combustion process without excess heat or friction. But sometimes, vehicles develop oil leaks. Other times, oil gets used up and the level dips below what it should be. So learn how to check car oil levels in Stanley with Ryan Chrysler Jeep Dodge so your vehicle is never wanting for motor oil! The service center here at Ryan Chrysler Jeep Dodge is here to help.

Learn How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

A lot of newer Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM vehicles come equipped with electronic oil level gauges that can be found in a vehicle display screen near the speedometer. 

1. Ensure your vehicle is parked on level ground and that the engine is off. If it’s hot, don’t proceed further; wait for it to cool down first.
2. Pop the hood and find the dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out of the engine and wipe the oil off of it. 
4. Re-insert the dipstick, then pull it out and look at both sides to see where the level is.

You’ll likely notice a cross-hatched or otherwise marked area of your dipstick, between which is the proper oil level. If your oil level is below the bottom line, you need to add more oil. If it’s above the second line, then you have too much oil.

Why Check Your Car’s Oil Level?

Oil level, just like oil type, is an important part of healthy vehicle functioning. In essence, ideally, you want to check your car’s oil level at least once a month with oil changes occurring every 5,000-10,000 miles, or at least twice annually for low mileage drivers. But why? Checking your oil to be sure there’s the right amount ensures proper lubrication during the combustion process, helping you drive around Watford City and Dickinson more smoothly. You can also come to us for express maintenance for things like oil level checks and oil changes.

How to Reset Oil Change Light

Generally speaking, resetting an oil change light is a fairly straightforward process, though nuances may be different for your car, so you can always schedule service online with Ryan Chrysler Jeep Dodge to be on the safe side. Otherwise, here’s a general overview of steps you can take to reset your oil change light in Williston:

How to Reset Oil Change Light: Step-by-Step:

• Turn off all systems in your car. Leave the engine running, though.
• Locate the “reset” button on your dashboard (this is often found near the speedometer and fuel gauge behind/above the steering wheel).
• Hold the reset button down until the oil change light starts to flash (this is often the sign of resetting, though it could differ for your vehicle).
• Turn the ignition off, wait a few seconds, then turn your car back on.

At this point, the oil light should be reset. If you have any additional questions about how to reset your oil change light, though, don’t hesitate to call 701-577-1111!

Let Ryan Chrysler Jeep Dodge Help With Car Maintenance

Looking for top notch, reliable automotive maintenance and repairs, including oil changes and oil level checks and top offs? Ryan Chrysler Jeep Dodge can help! Contact us online for more information or check out our service specials to save more on maintenance & repairs.