Checking your Oil

If you own or drive a vehicle this is probably one of the single most important things you can do. To be honest I slack in this department a lot, but I'm working on it. It's a fairly simple but often overlooked task. Here's simple guide how-to:
1. I think the best time to check it is first thing before you use the vehicle for the day. Your oil has had a chance to settle and I think you'll get a better reading too.
2. Park on level ground.
3. Open hood.
4. Pick a well lit spot or use a drop light (or some type of light).
5. Locate your dipstick(no don't go bother your spouse or significant other).It's usually located on the front or side of engine. Most are colored as to make locating easier, in my case it's colored yellow in my Impala.
6. Pull the stick out and wipe clean(old rag or paper towel will do) and reinsert it until it's fully seated.

7. Pull it back out and check it. Your oil level should be between the two marks on the dipstick. If it's below the mark add 1 quart of oil. Even if it appears that your 1 or more low only add one at a time. Give oil a few minutes to settle in the engine before checking again. It may even be a good idea to take a spin for few minutes and then checking the oil again after it settles.
8. This is also a good time to to check your oil filler cap if the gasket is worn or brittle it may allow oil fumes and oil to escape. If so replace as soon as possible.
9. If you need to add oil it's a good idea to use a funnel as to avoid spills onto your engine or exhaust.
10. Replace your filler cap, dipstick and clean up any excess oil.

That's it and your ready to roll. You can't check your oil enough. If your vehicle is fairly new and running well once a month should be fine. If not check it weekly or as much as you feel you need to. Some oil use is to be expected even in the best running engines. If you feel your adding too much oil between changes have your trusty auto mechanic check it out as it may be a sign of a more serious problem. Thank you and happy motoring!