What does your car’s engine oil do?
In order for your car’s engine to function properly, or indeed
at all, it is vital that it has the correct and clean oil. Engine oil
acts as a cushion between moving parts, reducing friction
and preventing wear and tear. The oil also picks up damaging
metallic debris which is sieved out through the oil filter. Oil also
helps to transfer excess heat from the engine into the air.
Why does oil need checking?
Your engine will over time consume a
certain amount of oil, as the engine oil
deteriorates under the engine’s extreme
temperature. Therefore, it is important that
your engine oil level is regularly checked.
How do I check the oil?
Checking and topping up engine oil is a
simple job, but care must be taken as too
much oil can be as bad for your engine as
too little; and could even result in damage
to the catalytic converter.
With your car parked on level ground, warm up the engine
to operating temperature, then stop the engine for at least
five minutes. Then lift the bonnet and pull out the dipstick,
wipe it clean, and then replace the dipstick into the engine.
Remove the dipstick again and read the oil level
– ideally the level should be between the minimum
and maximum markers (see diagram below ).
Check
your oil
Please note: this diagram is for illustration purposes only and may not
necessarily be the same as the dipstick in your engine.
