do i check my oil with the car running

Popping the hood to check your oil is one of the most fundamental acts of car care. It’s a simple task that can tell you a lot about your engine’s health and help you avoid costly repairs down the line. But a common point of confusion for many is the proper procedure. You might find yourself standing there, dipstick in hand, wondering, do i check my oil with the car running?

The Correct Way to Check Your Oil

The short and crucial answer is no. For an accurate reading, you should always check your oil with the engine turned off. The best practice is to park your car on a level surface, turn off the engine, and wait for about 5-10 minutes. This waiting period allows the oil that’s been circulating throughout the engine to drain back down into the oil pan. If you check it while the engine is running or immediately after shutting it off, a significant amount of oil will still be in the upper parts of the engine, giving you a falsely low reading on the dipstick.

Why Checking with the Engine Off Matters

Getting an accurate measurement is vital for your engine’s well-being. If you were to add oil based on an incorrect low reading, you risk overfilling the system. Too much oil can create excessive pressure and cause damage to engine seals and components. By ensuring the engine is off and has had a moment to rest, you are checking the true reservoir of oil available for the next time you start your car. This simple habit provides a clear and reliable picture of your oil level.

A Simple Guide to Checking Your Oil Level

Once your car has settled, locate the dipstick (usually with a yellow or orange handle labeled ‘Engine Oil’). Pull it out completely and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel. Fully reinsert it, then pull it out again to get a fresh reading. Now, look at the end of the dipstick. You will see two marks indicating the minimum and maximum levels. Your oil level should be somewhere between these two marks. If it’s near or below the minimum, it’s time to add a quart of the oil type recommended in your owner’s manual.

Making this quick check a regular part of your routine, done correctly with the engine off, is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your engine’s longevity. It only takes a minute, but it offers immense peace of mind for every journey.