How to check your engine oil
Thinking about your engine oil might not always be at the top of your to-do list, but it plays an important part in protecting your engine and helps keep your car performing at its best.
It only takes a couple of minutes to perform an engine oil check, and you’ll quickly see if yours needs a top-up.
Did you know...?
It’s okay to mix different engine oils, as long as both oils are suitable for your vehicle and recommended by your manufacturer.
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When should you check the engine oil level?
You should check engine oil regularly and in-between oil changes so you can keep an eye on it and avoid any long-term engine damage taking place. It’s particularly helpful to have a quick look at your oil levels before taking your vehicle out on a long journey.
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What do you need to check your engine oil?
You don’t need much to perform an engine oil check. Grab some paper towels or a clean cloth (that you don’t mind getting dirty) and a pair of gloves to help keep your hands clean. It’s good to have a funnel and a bottle of Mobil engine oil to hand in case you do need a top-up.
How to check your engine oil: step-by-step
- Park your car on a flat surface and wait ten minutes to give the engine a chance to cool and for the oil to drain.
- Open the bonnet of your car and secure it well.
- Locate the dipstick and pull it out
- Use the cloth or paper towel to wipe off any oil from the dipstick.
- Push the dipstick back into place and then immediately pull it back out to see where the oil level is.
- There will be two marks on the dipstick, a higher and lower mark. The oil should be nearer to the higher mark, if it’s near the lower mark - or beneath the lower mark - it’s time to top-up your oil.
- If you do need to add more oil, make sure you have the correct Mobil engine oil at the right viscosity. You can then slowly funnel the oil in bit by bit, regularly checking the new level using the dipstick.
- Once finished, replace the dipstick, and close your bonnet.
Which engine oil is right for you?
We recommend you always keep a 1 litre bottle of the Mobil engine oil suited to your car in your boot so you’re ready for anything. Find the right Mobil engine oil for your vehicle.
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How much engine oil do I need?
Your engine oil plays a key role in looking after your engine and helping it run at its best. You need to make sure you use the right amount of engine oil for your vehicle and keep it topped up.
Find out how -
How to change your engine oil
Regular oil changes will ensure your engine keeps performing at its best, helping your car to achieve maximum power and enhanced fuel efficiency. Use our step-by-step guide to change your engine oil at home.
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How to change your brake fluid
Your brake fluid plays a critical role in making sure your brakes are working properly, keeping you safe out on the road. Our step-by-step guide will help you understand how to change your brake fluid.
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How to use less petrol
With just a few simple changes, you can make noticeable improvements to your fuel economy. Follow our top tips to help you become a more fuel-efficient driver.
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Mobil 1™
Our advanced range of synthetic technology engine oils helps provide outstanding engine protection against wear. Nothing works harder for your car.
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Mobil Super™
Mobil Super™ offers a range of synthetic, semi-synthetic and conventional oils providing different levels of protection to match the conditions you face, whilst always ensuring you can drive with full confidence.
More about Mobil Super
