Engine oil check

Engine oil is required for its mechanical components to be lubricated and to function properly during operation.

Low oil levels can cause extensive damage to the engine bearings and crankshaft. When the level is too low, the oil pump cannot deliver the required amount of lubricating oil, there is an increase in friction, heating, and damage to the bearings.

When the oil level is too high the crankshaft touches the oil during operation, creating a foam so that the bearings instead of oil receive air, resulting in insufficient lubrication and damage to the engine components. Regular checks of the engine oil level can prevent such problems.

Besides oil level, quality such as colour, density, mixing of liquids, and odour change is controlled. The engine oil level and quality should be checked periodically, usually at each or at least every second arrival at the pump. If any irregularity is observed during the examination, a more thorough examination should be done immediately to identify and remedy the cause.

To check the engine oil level and quality, follow these steps:

Vehicle Preparation

Before checking the oil level, place the vehicle on a level surface so that it is not tilted. Always check engine oil with the engine off.

Preparation of dipstick

The dipstick lever is usually brightly coloured or says ”OIL “. Pull out and wipe the dipstick, identify measuring marks and replace it with the measuring tube.

Oil level measurement

Remove the dipstick again and read the oil level. The markings on the dipstick typically have lines indicating the minimum and maximum value of the oil level. Most often, the distance between these two values is 1 litre of oil.

Oil quality control

After reading the level, evaluate the colour, density and odour of the oil. If any irregularity is observed, additional tests should be performed to find out a cause that changes the normal oil level or quality.