Your engine's performance relies on having adequate lubrication, hence the importance of learning how to check the oil levels on your car; to that end, read this post by K&K Oil and Lube in Clermont.

Why You Should Check The Oil Levels of Your Engine

Engine oil protects your vehicle by withstanding the extreme temperatures and pressure generated under the hood. This fluid is thick enough to form a lubricating film between surfaces that brush against each other; however, it is also liquid enough to circulate through the engine quickly. The primary function of oil is to lubricate the engine; however, this fluid provides more than that. While lubricating the pistons, valves, and bearings, the oil carries away the heat these moving parts generate and carries it to cooler areas, helping to keep the engine in an ideal temperature range. In addition to assisting the cooling system, the oil contains detergent additives that help keep the engine clean by collecting impurities and corrosive particles agglomerated inside the machine. With all the functions of motor oil addressed, it becomes clearer why it is referred to as "the lifeblood of the machine." Moreover, it is also better understood why your engine could be subject to overheating, premature wear, corrosion, and irreversible damage without motor oil, hence the importance of keeping oil levels topped up. Fortunately, measuring the amount of fluid in the oil reservoir is a quick and easy task that you can do on your own at least once every month. If you want to learn the steps to perform this preventive maintenance task, keep reading this post by K&K Oil and Lube.

Reach out to K&K Oil and Lube at (918) 269-0081 and ask their oil specialists about recommended formulas and products for your vehicle. Don't forget to browse AMSOIL's online store to place an order for the most effective synthetic oil in Clermont.

How to Check Oil Levels

Pre-Check Steps

1. For starters, get some paper towels or a white cloth to remove oil residue during the check; also, have your owner's manual handy, so you can refer to it if you have any questions.
2. The next thing to do is find a flat surface to park your vehicle; this is key to getting an accurate oil reading.
3. Make sure the engine is cool before opening the hood; that way, you'll avoid the risk of getting burned by hot oil.

Locate the Dipstick and Clean It

The first thing you need to do is find the oil dipstick inside the engine. On most car engines, this piece is notable for having a yellow, ring-shaped handle; however, you can also locate it with the help of your owner's manual. Once you find it, pull on the handle to remove the rod from the tube. The dipstick will most likely have oily residue; hence, have your piece of cloth or paper towels handy to give it a clean, especially to the marks near the tip, as these indicators will tell you where your motor oil level is.

The continued use of AMSOIL's Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil extends your vehicle's life and maximizes its performance for safer and smoother rides. Call K&K Oil and Lube at (918) 269-0081 or visit AMSOIL's online store to place an order on the most effective synthetic oil in Clermont.

Insert the Dipstick Back

Once you have wiped off the oil residue and the dipstick is clean, insert it back into the tube and wait about 5 seconds for the fluid to sit around it.

Remove the Dipstick and Check the Oil Levels

Next, remove the dipstick from the tube and hold it upright, as tilting it may cause the oil to slide over the stick's surface, affecting the accuracy of the reading. Once out, check the markings near the tip and see where the oil reaches. In the best case, the oil level will be between the two dipstick marks indicating that the engine is well lubricated and protected. Conversely, an oil level that barely reaches the lower mark may suggest that your engine is prone to overheating, in which case you should immediately top up the oil reservoir. As for an excessive high oil level, you may have a condensation problem or coolant leakage inside the engine; hence, you'll need to have the issue assessed by a mechanic as soon as possible.

Finally, Check The Condition of the Oil

Finally, check the color and texture of the oil. Start by inspecting the oily residue on the piece of cloth or paper towels you used to clean the dipstick. You shouldn't be concerned if the residue is amber to dark brown; however, you may need an oil change if the motor oil remnants are completely black. As for the texture, make sure the oil on the dipstick is cool so you can safely touch it; then, take a sample with your fingers to check its consistency. If the fluid feels thin and slippery, consider this oil check procedure finished. Conversely, call your mechanic if the oil feels gritty or foamy, as such textures indicate major issues within the engine.

Aside from learning how to check the oil levels of your engine, talk to the oil specialists at K&K Oil and Lube to get the most effective synthetic oil change in Clermont. Call them at (918) 269-0081 today and visit AMSOIL's online store for more information.