How to Check Car Oil

Whether you drive a brand-new vehicle or a well-loved one, regular oil changes are an essential part of good automotive care and responsible vehicle ownership. Oil lubricates the internal components of your engine to minimize friction and heat and ensure optimal performance on the roads of Charlottesville, Staunton, and beyond. If you’re not sure how to check car oil, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, our service team at Campus Ford tells you how to check the oil level in your car and how to reset the oil change light.

How to Check the Oil Level in Your Car

First, determine whether your vehicle has an electronic oil monitor or a traditional dipstick. You can find this out by consulting the owner’s manual. While an oil monitor automatically detects oil levels and sends an alert when levels are low, a dipstick requires some quick, easy steps on your part:

• Park your car on level ground, switch the engine off, and allow the engine to completely cool.
• Pop the hood and locate the dipstick.
• Pull the dipstick out of its tube and use a paper towel or clean cloth to wipe any oil from the end.
• Put the dipstick completely back into the tube, then pull it out again. You can now check the oil level on both sides of the dipstick.

Your dipstick will be marked in some way for you to easily tell where the oil level is at. Usually, if the oil level falls between two defined markings or within a cross-hatched pattern on the dipstick, the oil level is sufficient. If it falls below any markings or patterns, you’ll need more oil.

How to Reset Your Oil Change Light

Once you’ve changed your oil, you’ll want to reset the oil change light. Here are the general steps involved, though it’s a good idea to check your owner’s manual to confirm that this process will work with your vehicle:

• Leave the engine running, but turn off all your other vehicle systems.
• Locate the Reset button or stick on the dashboard; look near the speedometer and fuel gauge.
• Hold the button/stick down until the oil change light flashes.
• Shut off the engine, wait a few seconds, and restart your car. The light should be off, and now you’re ready for all your Harrisonburg drives!

When you trust your oil changes to our service team, we will take care of resetting the oil change light for you.

Schedule an Oil Change at Campus Ford Today

Now that you know how to check car oil, is your vehicle due for an oil change? Let our service department handle all your auto maintenance and repair needs. Schedule an appointment conveniently online, and be sure to check out our latest service specials to save on your visit. By knowing how to check car oil and staying on top of regular oil changes, you are making sure your vehicle serves you well for years to come.