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How to check and top up engine oil

Overview

Keeping an eye on your car’s engine oil is a simple but essential part of vehicle maintenance. Engine oil helps your engine run smoothly by reducing friction and keeping things cool. And the best bit? You don’t need to be a mechanic to check or top engine oil. Here’s how to do it yourself in just a few easy steps.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 

Tools and materials

    Steps

    1. 1

      Locate and check the dipstick

      Before you begin, make sure your car is parked on level ground and the engine is completely cool. If you’ve just been for a drive, wait about 10–15 minutes after turning off the car engine. This lets the car oil settle so you’ll get an accurate reading. Then, pop the car bonnet and secure it in place.

      Next, you’ll need to find the dipstick. In most cars, it has a yellow or orange handle, making it easy to spot. Gently pull it out, then wipe it clean using a cloth or paper towel. This first wipe clears off any oil that’s splashed around while the engine was running. Slide the dipstick all the way back into its tube, then pull it out again to get a proper reading. On the end of the dipstick, you’ll see markings that show the minimum and maximum engine oil levels. You want the oil to sit close to the full mark, but not above it.

      A Bunnings Team Member is checking and wiping the dipstick with a cloth to clears off any oil the splashed around while the engine was running.
    2. 2

      Assess the oil condition

      While you’ve got the dipstick out, take a close look at the colour and consistency of the oil. If it’s a clear, honey-like colour, the oil is fresh and in good condition. If it’s black and dirty, it might be time for an oil change soon. And if the oil looks milky or cloudy, that’s a sign water has mixed in, which can point to a more serious issue - this should be checked by a qualified mechanic.
      An image shows a close-up of the car engine shows the dipstick in place, with the oil appearing fresh and in good condition.
    3. 3

      Top up if needed

      If the dipstick shows the oil level is low, it’s time to add some. Unscrew the oil filler cap, which is usually located near the top of the engine and often marked ‘Engine Oil’. Place a funnel into the opening and slowly pour in a small amount of oil - start with around 200 millilitres. Give it a moment to settle, then recheck the level using the dipstick. If it’s still not high enough, repeat the process, adding a little at a time. It’s important not to overfill the engine, as too much oil can put pressure on seals and potentially cause leaks.
      The image shows a man in a red shirt and black gloves carefully adding engine oil into a car engine using a funnel.
    4. 4

      Finish up

      Once the oil level is sitting right where it should be, securely screw the oil filler cap back on. Double-check that everything is tidy and properly in place under the bonnet. Then, gently close the bonnet until it clicks shut.
      a person wearing black gloves pressing down the oil dipstick into a car engine after completing an oil check or refill.
    5. 5

      Now that you’ve checked and topped up your engine oil

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    Health & Safety

    Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

    When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.