Your Detailed Guide

Did you know that many manufacturers allow your engine to burn or consume up to 1 quart of oil per 1,000 miles. That means you need to be checking your oil at least every 1,000 miles driven.


I made an easy step by step instruction on how to check your oil. There are two ways you can check your oil either on a warm engine or cold engine.


You will need a clean rag or paper towel and to be parked on level surface.


Let's start with the warm engine check instructions.

  1. Engine needs to be up to operating temperature.
  2. Shut off engine and let sit for 5-10 minutes. This allows the engine oil to drain back into your oil pan.
  3. Open the hood and locate your dipstick.
  4. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it off on your clean rag or paper towel.
  5. Put dipstick back in fully then pull out again. This will give you the proper reading of your oil level.
  6. The low mark to the full mark is 1 quart.


Now the cold engine check instructions.

  1. Let the car sit overnight.
  2. Open the hood and locate your dipstick.
  3. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it off on your clean rag or paper towel.
  4. Put dipstick back in fully then pull out again. This will give you the proper reading of your oil level.
  5. The low mark to the full mark is 1 quart.


Let's talk about oil condition.

- Normal  is amber colored to a dark brown (if you drive a diesel they go dark quickly)

- Red Flag - if your oil is milky or foamy, is metallic or has a strong fuel or burnt smell.


If you're adding oil only add 1/4 of a quart at a time, and recheck your level. Never overfill your engine oil. To much oil can cause issues just like not enough oil.


Questions about checking your oil? We are happy to answer them. Stop by and we will show you how to do it. Give us a call and let us take care of you.


Happy Adventures,

Heather


Our specials can be found here - Specials - J & H Automotive, Inc 

Ready to make an appointment … Appointments - J & H Automotive, Inc 

Want to know more … About Us - J & H Automotive, Inc 

Would you like to join our merry band of misfits? Careers - J & H Automotive, Inc 


 
Want to know more…

https://www.facebook.com/JHAutomotiveInc                   

https://www.pinterest.com/jhautoinc

Instagram photos and videos

LinkedIn
 

By jhautoinc July 28, 2026
It keeps you moving
By jhautoinc July 24, 2026
Air conditioning, Automotive repair
By jhautoinc July 17, 2026
Let's keep your engine running smooth
By jhautoinc July 14, 2026
They keep you moving
By jhautoinc July 10, 2026
A plugged heater core can cause big issues
By jhautoinc July 8, 2026
Hint. It helps you stop.
By jhautoinc July 3, 2026
It makes sure your coolant circulates through your engine.
By jhautoinc July 1, 2026
Your brakes should not make noise
By jhautoinc June 26, 2026
No one likes a hot car
By Bobby Poist June 23, 2026
It might not be what you think