How to Check your Oil

Steps to Check Your Engine's Oil

One of the most important things to do as an automobile owner is to check your vehicle's engine oil level. Not only can it help extend the life of your engine, but checking your engine oil to ensure it is at an adequate level may prevent engine damage. Vehicle engines are made up of many moving parts, and those parts require proper lubrication to avoid damage. Operating your vehicle when the engine oil is low may cause serious damage to your engine.

Regularly checking your Honda's engine oil in between your regularly scheduled maintenance appointments is quick and simple. Follow the steps listed below to properly check the oil level in your Honda:

• Make sure your vehicle is parked on a level surface. This will ensure you get the most accurate reading when you are ready to check your oil level.
• Make sure you are parked where there is sufficient lighting to safely complete the remaining steps.
• Prop the hood of your vehicle open safely and double-check it is securely locked in place. Refer to your manufacturer's owner's manual for more information if needed.
• Locate the oil dipstick handle. This is usually brightly coloured and has the word OIL on it. Once again, refer to your manufacturer's owner's manual for more information.
• Remove the dipstick and wipe it off with a rag. Then place the dipstick back in its location being sure to push it all the way in.
• Remove the dipstick again. Do Not turn it upside down when reading the oil level since this will cause the oil to run, and the reading will not be accurate. There will be two holes or lines on the bottom of the Honda oil dipstick. Look to see the oily section of the dipstick reaches. If it is in between the markers, then there is plenty of oil in your Honda.
• If the reading shows that the oil is below the lowest line or hole, you will need to add oil. You can add oil, by using the oil type specified by your manufacturer's owner's manual, 1 litre at a time. Repeat the steps above to recheck the oil level and keep adding oil 1 litre at a time until the mark falls between the holes or lines. If you are not comfortable adding oil to your vehicle's engine, contact us or schedule a maintenance appointment as soon as possible.

Keep in mind that 1 litre of oil per 1,600 km is considered normal consumption by most manufacturers. If your Honda is using a greater amount of oil or is running low in between your oil changes, schedule a service appointment and our service technicians will investigate the issue.