Behind the Wheel: Driving Tips 101

Like air to your tyres, oil is vital to your car’s engine. But as with everything that needs checked regularly, it can be easy to forget. However this could end up costing you your car if not your life.

                                               

Oil is what keeps your engine and car in working order so for that reason it is something you should check every fortnight. But don’t worry, it doesn’t take long. In fact it’s as easy as one, two three!

1. Park you car on a level surface in a well-lit area. If you can, wait until your vehicle has cooled down. Prop the hood and locate the oil dipstick. In most cars it has a bright handle but if you are having problems finding it, you can consult your vehicle manual.

 

2. Remove the dipstick and clean it with a clean cloth. You will notice that it has two markers on it: a maximum level and a minimum level. Put the clean dipstick back down the tube. Make sure it goes all the way down.

3. Remove it and inspect the oil level. Do not turn the stick upside down as this will jeopardise the reading and will result in you having to do the whole process again. If the oil level is between the two markers, you are good to go. If it is below the minimum mark, then you need to top it up.

Look for a cap with an oil can symbol. Using a funnel, gently pour the oil in (make sure it’s the correct type of oil by referring to your vehicle manual). Be careful as overfilling your oil can be just as bad as being low on oil.

Check back here for weekly driving tips, with thanks to MSL Ballsbridge