How Do I Inspect My Car’s Oil?

Your engine’s motor oil plays an essential role, lubricating the intricate components found beneath the hood. You’ll enjoy the benefits behind the wheel too, with a properly functioning engine providing better performance. Clean motor oil also prevents moving parts from wearing out too quickly, so you’ll not only keep your vehicle on the road longer, but save on maintenance over time.

Checking your car’s oil is simple! In fact, we recommend taking a peek every other time you fill up your tank. Or trust a car mechanic near you to handle your vehicle’s maintenance! Here at Burns Chevrolet, our certified technicians are happy to help, providing a wide variety of automotive services, including oil changes in Rock Hill, SC.

Read on to learn more about checking your oil, then schedule an appointment at our Service Center today!

Checking Your Oil: A Few Simple Steps

Step 1: Check the owner’s manual and follow any recommendations on oil type and maintenance intervals.

Step 2: Double check that your vehicle is in Park and located on level ground. With the engine off, pop the hood and find the dipstick.

Step 3: Remove the dipstick and wipe off excess oil before reinserting it into the tube.

Step 4: Pull the dipstick back out and examine both sides to see where the oil reached. You may notice two pinholes or abbreviations like “min” and “max” that indicate proper oil levels. If the oil line is below the minimum mark, it’s time to add oil.

Step 5: Take note of the oil’s color too. It should look black or dark brown, but if it looks light and milky, you may be facing a coolant leak.

Step 6: If the oil level and color look normal, put the dipstick back in the tube and close the hood securely. All done!

Adding Engine Oil: A How-To Guide

If the level is low or oil appears discolored, you might need to add oil. Schedule an oil change at your local Chevy dealership in Rock Hill, SC or follow these simple steps!

Step 1: Be sure to use the recommended grade of oil. Most bear a designation like 0W-20 or 5W-30. If you’re not sure which type to choose (fully synthetic oil vs. synthetic blend oil vs. conventional motor oil), don’t hesitate to ask a member of our team!

Step 2: Remove the oil filler cap, usually located on the top of the engine.

Step 3: Add a little oil at a time, using a funnel to prevent spills. Start by adding about half a quart, then wait for oil to settle. 

Step 4: Check the dipstick again. If needed, add more. (Note: Unless your engine is leaking or burning oil, you shouldn’t have to add more than a quart.)

Step 5: Screw the oil filler cap back on tightly.

Time for an Oil Change Near You? Get to Burns Chevy in Rock Hill, SC! 

Car maintenance doesn’t have to be stressful or inconvenient! Here at Burns Chevrolet, we’ve made it easier than ever to service and repair your vehicle – no hassle, no headache! If you’d prefer for our certified techs to handle your oil change, we’d be happy to help. Our trained mechanics are standing by, equipped with the latest technology and tools to ensure a job well done. 

Shopping for a new ride? Be sure to ask about the Burns Benefit Plan, a great perk that covers your oil changes and so much more! Buy today and benefit for life!

Schedule an appointment today! 

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