When Checking Engine Oil, Should the Car Be On?

Checking your engine oil is a simple but important part of car maintenance. It helps you ensure that your engine is getting the lubrication it needs to run smoothly and efficiently.

One of the most common questions people have about checking engine oil is whether or not the car should be on. The answer to this question is no, the car should not be on when you check your engine oil.

Why Not to Check Engine Oil When the Car Is On

There are a few reasons why you should not check your engine oil when the car is on:

• The oil level may not be accurate. When the engine is running, the oil is circulating throughout the engine and is not all settled in the oil pan. This can lead to an inaccurate oil level reading.
• You could get burned. The engine oil can be hot when the car is running, and you could get burned if you touch it.
• You could damage the engine. If you overfill the engine with oil, it can damage the engine.

How to Check Engine Oil

To check your engine oil, follow these steps:

1. Park the car on a level surface.
2. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
3. Open the hood and locate the oil dipstick.
4. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
5. Reinsert the dipstick and push it all the way in.
6. Pull out the dipstick and check the oil level.

The oil level should be between the two marks on the dipstick. If the oil level is low, add oil until it reaches the full mark.

Conclusion

Checking your engine oil is a simple and important part of car maintenance. By following these steps, you can ensure that your engine is getting the lubrication it needs to run smoothly and efficiently.