Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

2. Check Engine Oil Level

2. CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

WARNING: Smoking or open flame of any type must not be present when working near fuel or fuel vapor. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.

Purpose:
The purpose of this test is to verify proper oil quality.

Check Engine Oil Level







- Check for contaminants (fuel, coolant).
- Correct grade/viscosity.
- Miles/hours on oil, correct level.

Recommended Procedure:
Check for the correct oil level using the dipstick with the vehicle on level ground.

If the oil level on the dipstick is overfull, it is possible the engine was incorrectly repaired or fuel/coolant is diluting the oil and filling the crankcase.

Inspect the oil for color. A milky white oil indicates possible coolant contamination which has an ethylene glycol odor.

Oil contaminated with diesel fuel has a diesel fuel odor and increases the engine oil level. If the engine oil level is above Max due to diesel fuel dilution, the oil appears thin and watery.

Check the maintenance records for correct oil type and viscosity for the vehicle operating temperature. Oil that has had extended drain intervals has increased viscosity (becomes thicker) and makes engine cranking more difficult and starting less reliable at temperatures below freezing. Refer to the lube oil chart in Owner's Literature for the correct oil selection for temperature conditions.

Possible Causes:
- Oil level low - oil leak, oil consumption, incorrect repair
- Oil level high - incorrect repair, fuel dilution from injector O-rings
- Oil contamination with coolant - oil cooler, head gasket, porosity

Tools Required:
None