Checking your car’s oil level is simple: park your car on level ground, wait until the engine is cold, pull the dipstick out of the engine, wipe it clean, insert it back completely and pull it out again to read the level. The oil should be between the MIN and MAX markings. Check this monthly to prevent engine damage.
Why is it important to regularly check your oil level?
Regular oil level checks prevent expensive engine damage and keep your car reliable. Engine oil lubricates all moving parts, cools the engine and traps dirt. Without sufficient oil, metal parts can grind against each other, leading to complete engine damage.
Too little oil causes excessive wear on pistons, connecting rods and crankshaft. These repairs can quickly cost thousands of euros. Additionally, an engine without sufficient oil can overheat, causing the cylinder head to warp.
Car maintenance starts with simple checks like the oil level. By checking monthly, you prevent not only damage but also breakdowns on the road. An engine that suddenly seizes due to lack of oil is often beyond repair.
When should you check your car’s oil level?
Always check the oil level with a cold engine that has been stationary for at least 10 minutes. After driving, warm oil needs time to flow back to the oil pan. With a warm engine, the dipstick shows a level that’s too low.
Park your car on level ground for an accurate reading. On a slope, the dipstick shows an incorrect level. Preferably park on a level driveway or parking lot, not half on the curb.
The best times for checking are:
- Before your first drive of the day
- Monthly on a fixed date
- Before long trips
- After maintenance or repairs
How do you recognize the oil dipstick and where do you find it?
The oil dipstick is a long, thin metal rod with a handle at the top. The handle usually has a bright color (yellow, orange or red) and often shows an oil can symbol. On some cars, “ENGINE OIL” is written on the handle.
You’ll find the oil dipstick in the engine compartment, usually on the side or back of the engine. On many cars, it sticks straight up from the engine block. Don’t touch the wrong stick: the transmission dipstick (if present) is usually located deeper in the engine.
Recognition points of the correct dipstick:
- Colored handle with oil can symbol
- Usually sticks straight up
- Located in or near the engine block
- Pulls out easily
What do the markings on the oil dipstick mean?
The oil dipstick has clear markings that indicate the correct oil level. The oil level must always be between MIN and MAX. These markings are usually at the bottom of the dipstick and are hatched or marked with lines.
Many dipsticks have a hatched area between MIN and MAX. This is the safe zone where your oil level should be. Some sticks show only two lines: the bottom one is MIN, the top one is MAX.
| Level | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Below MIN | Too little oil | Top up immediately |
| Between MIN and MAX | Correct amount | No action needed |
| Above MAX | Too much oil | Drain excess oil |
Note: an oil level just below MIN means your engine can already suffer damage. Top up immediately before driving further.
What do you do if the oil level is too low or too high?
With too little oil, carefully top up through the oil filler cap on top of the engine. Add small amounts and check regularly to prevent overfilling. Always use the correct oil specification listed in your maintenance manual.
Steps for too little oil:
- Buy the correct engine oil (check the maintenance manual)
- Unscrew the oil filler cap
- Add small amounts (250 ml at a time)
- Wait 5 minutes and check again
- Repeat until the level is between MIN and MAX
Too much oil is also harmful. Excess oil can foam, reducing lubrication effectiveness. With far too much oil, seals can start leaking due to overpressure. Have excess oil drained at a general garage.
Don’t drive further if the oil level is far above MAX. The extra pressure can cause damage to engine components.
How Autobedrijf Verdonk helps with oil level checks and maintenance
At our location in Veldhoven, we’re happy to help you with all aspects of car maintenance, including oil level checks and oil changes. As an authorized Renault specialist and general garage, we know exactly which oil your car needs.
Our services:
- Free oil level check with every visit
- Advice on the right engine oil for your car
- Professional oil changes with quality oil
- Explanation of why regular oil changes are important
- Checking for possible oil leaks
- Transparent prices without surprises
We work on all car brands, but have special expertise with Renault, Peugeot and Citroën. Through our years of experience, we know exactly which oil suits your car and can assess if other maintenance is needed.
Want to have your car prepared for winter or have questions about maintenance? Feel free to contact us or visit us in Veldhoven.
Autobedrijf Verdonk also performs maintenance and repairs for all other car brands. Read more about our history or contact us for personal advice about your car.