How to Add Oil to a Car

Adding oil to a car can be a lifesaver to your engine. An engine that runs low on oil can run hotter and can wear out prematurely. Be careful when you add oil to an engine because it is important not to overfill it. Too much oil in a car can be as bad as not having enough oil.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Quart of recommended oil
• Funnel

1. Open the hood of your car.
2. Check your car's oil level to determine if any additional oil is needed in your car's engine. Simply pull out the car's dipstick, wipe it off then insert the dipstick back into the engine. If the oil level is at "Add" or "Low," it is time to add oil to your car.
3. Look at your car's oil cap to determine what grade of oil your engine needs. Your car's recommended oil grade can also be found in your owner's manual. Make certain to use the exact grade specified so that you don't void any warranties provided by the car dealership.
4. Open the car's oil cap and place a funnel into the opening.
5. Add 1 qt. of the recommended oil slowly. Simply turn the quart of oil upside down so that the oil pours into the funnel.
6. Repeat the process of checking your car's oil level to make sure you car's dipstick now shows the "Full" oil level. Add more oil if necessary until the oil level is right.
7. Replace the dipstick and the car's oil cap.
8. Close the hood.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not overfill your car with oil. Only add enough oil so your dipstick reads "Full."