How to Check the Oil in Your Vehicle

At Freedom Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram By Ed Morse, our Service Center takes care of oil changes every day, getting drivers back on the road quickly. When do you need an oil change? The timeline may vary depending on various factors, but you will need to change it when it becomes degraded. Learn how you can check on its status below!

Preparation 

Whether you’re a Jeep enthusiast or you need a Ram 3500 for work, your vehicle needs oil to thrive. However, oil doesn’t last forever, and eventually, you’ll need to replace it. You'll need to evaluate its physical condition to know when it’s time to change out it out. Getting started on this process is simple. Gather a clean rag or paper towel and park your vehicle in a well-lit, level area. With your item in hand, pop the hood of your car and locate the brightly-colored dipstick. Remove the knob of the dipstick and wipe away excess oil so it’s clean. Re-insert this piece fully back into place and then remove it once again.

Observing Oil Level and Condition 

Now, take a look at what you see. The residue should reach the designated markings on the dipstick. Often it should show minimum and maximum hatchings. Ideally, the leftover oil will fall between these indicators. If it doesn’t meet the lowest marking, then you’ll need to get an oil change, as the liquid is too low. Should you decide to continue driving with low oil levels, you risk increased friction between gear parts and the engine bay overheating. However, checking out the level is just one piece of the puzzle. Next, look closely at the oil’s appearance. Fresh oil is usually amber or light brown. If it looks very dark, gritty, or has visible debris, it may be contaminated. In this case, it’s best to schedule service or drop in for an oil change. Our Service Center uses quality oil and genuine Mopar Parts for all replacements and repairs, so you can feel confident after your appointment.

Finishing Up

Now that you know how to check your oil, it’s a good idea to do so when you’re nearing the end of its lifespan. With most oil changes on modern vehicles, you’re good to go for about 5,000 to 7,000 miles or six months to a year. However, this timeline varies significantly depending on the type of oil you use, the age of your vehicle, driving habits, and climate. That’s why it’s important to stay on top of checking the oil before you notice concerning and costly symptoms. If you found that your oil was in good condition when you checked it, we recommend writing this down along with the date so you can track your next check. We regularly offer service specials, so be sure to check these out before stopping by our dealership!