How to Put Oil in a Car

by Tammatha R. Conerly
itstillruns article image
Photos by Tammatha R. Conerly

If you don’t have the right amount of oil in your vehicle, you can ruin your engine, which can cost you thousands. Putting oil in is easy and can save you a lot of money, especially if you have an older vehicle that has developed leaks.

Step 1

itstillruns article image

Remove the dipstick to determine if you need to add oil. The dipstick is located near the engine, and will be marked "engine oil." Pull the dipstick out, wipe it with a paper towel or clean cloth, replace it and pull it back out again. See where the oil is on the dipstick. The dipstick will be marked "low/add" and "full," indicating the need to add oil. If the oil is below the full line, you need to add oil. If there is no oil on the dipstick, seek help from a licensed mechanic.

Step 2

itstillruns article image

Remove the oil cap located on the engine and place a clean funnel in it.

Step 3

itstillruns article image

Poor oil in. If oil was on the "add" mark, you need approximately 2 qts. of oil. If it is in between the "add" and "full" marks, add 1/2 qt. at a time and recheck the level to prevent overfilling.

Step 4

itstillruns article image

Crank the engine until the oil light goes off (or the oil pressure rises on the oil gauge, if your vehicle is equipped with one), then turn the engine off. Recheck the oil by pulling the dipstick, wiping it and then reading it to ensure it is at the proper level.

More Articles

article divider
×