How to Check Engine Oil Level at Home

Checking your engine oil level regularly is one of the simplest and most important vehicle maintenance tasks you can do at home. Proper engine oil level ensures smooth engine performance, better fuel efficiency, and longer engine life. The good news is—you don’t need a mechanic or special tools to do it.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to check engine oil level at home, step by step, for both cars and two-wheelers.

Why Is Checking Engine Oil Important?

Engine oil lubricates internal engine parts, reduces friction, controls temperature, and prevents wear. Low or dirty engine oil can cause serious engine damage.

Benefits of Regular Oil Check:

• Prevents engine overheating

• Reduces engine wear and tear

• Improves mileage and performance

• Avoids costly engine repairs

• Increases engine life

When Should You Check Engine Oil?

• Once every 2–3 weeks

• Before a long drive

• If the engine makes unusual noise

• If the oil warning light turns on

• After vehicle service

Things You Need

✔ A clean cloth or tissue
✔ Flat parking surface
✔ 5 minutes of time

(No tools required)

How to Check Engine Oil Level at Home (For Cars)

Step 1: Park the Car on a Level Surface

Park your car on flat ground and switch off the engine. This ensures accurate oil measurement.

Step 2: Let the Engine Cool Down

Wait for 5–10 minutes after turning off the engine so the oil settles in the oil pan.

Step 3: Open the Bonnet

Pull the bonnet release lever and secure it with the support rod.

Step 4: Locate the Dipstick

Find the engine oil dipstick (usually has a yellow or orange handle).

Step 5: Pull Out & Clean the Dipstick

Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean using a cloth or tissue.

Step 6: Reinsert the Dipstick Fully

Put the dipstick back in completely, then pull it out again.

Step 7: Check the Oil Level

Look at the oil mark on the dipstick:

• Oil should be between MIN and MAX marks

• Below MIN → oil needs to be added

• Above MAX → excess oil (can harm engine)

Step 8: Check Oil Color

• Golden/Brown: Oil is good

• Black & thick: Oil change needed

• Milky: Possible coolant mixing (visit service center)

How to Check Engine Oil Level at Home (For Bikes)

1. Place the bike on main stand

2. Ensure engine is cool

3. Locate the oil level window or dipstick

4. Oil should be between upper and lower marks

5. If low, top up recommended engine oil

How Much Engine Oil Should Be Added?

• Add oil slowly

• Check level again after adding

• Never overfill the engine

• Always use manufacturer-recommended grade

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Checking oil on a slope
❌ Checking oil when engine is hot
❌ Overfilling engine oil
❌ Mixing different oil grades
❌ Ignoring oil color and smell

How Often Should Engine Oil Be Changed?

• Bikes: Every 2,000–4,000 km

• Cars: Every 7,000–10,000 km

Depends on oil type & driving conditions

Best Engine Oil for Long Engine Life

Using high-quality engine oil improves lubrication, reduces friction, and protects engine parts. Trusted manufacturers like Bharat Lubricants offer engine oils designed for Indian driving conditions, ensuring better protection and performance.

Conclusion

Knowing how to check engine oil level at home helps you maintain your vehicle easily and avoid costly engine damage. This simple habit takes only a few minutes but plays a major role in keeping your engine healthy and efficient.

Make engine oil checking a regular routine and enjoy smoother, safer driving.