Billy Covington If you’re a Subaru owner, checking and maintaining your engine oil is one of the most crucial things you can do to keep your car running smoothly. Not only does engine oil lubricate the moving parts of your car’s engine, but it also helps to regulate the temperature and remove impurities. However, checking the oil level in your car can be daunting if you’ve never done it before. So, in this article, we’ll walk you through how to check the oil on your Subaru, when to check it, and how to maintain it for better performance.
Why Checking Oil is Important
Checking and maintaining the level of oil in your car’s engine should be an essential part of your routine maintenance. Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car and keeps all of the moving parts lubricated and friction-free. Checking your car’s oil on a regular basis helps you to ensure that your engine oil is at a safe and adequate level, which keeps the engine running at its best.
How Often Should You Check Your Oil
Experts suggest that you should check the oil level in your car’s engine at least once a month. However, if you’re driving a lot or if you’re experiencing any engine issues, then you should check it more frequently. It’s important to check your oil when the engine is cold, as this will give you a more accurate reading.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Check the Oil
- Park your car on a level surface and switch off the engine.
- Open the hood of your car and locate the oil dipstick. It usually has a yellow handle or ring.
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean cloth or rag. This will help you to get an accurate reading of the oil level.
- Reinsert the dipstick and push it down all the way.
- Pull out the dipstick once again and look at the oil level. The dipstick is marked with two lines or a cross-hatched area; make sure that the oil level is within this range.
Tips for Reading the Oil Dipstick
When checking the oil level, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure that the engine is cold to get an accurate reading.
- Always use a clean, lint-free rag or cloth to wipe the dipstick.
- If you’ve recently added oil, wait for at least 5 minutes before checking the level to get a correct reading.
- If the oil level is below the minimum line on the dipstick, it’s time to add more oil.
Adding Oil to Your Subaru
If your oil level is low, you need to add more oil to the engine. Here’s how:
- Purchase the correct type of oil for your Subaru.
- Open the oil cap located on top of the engine.
- Add a small amount of oil to the engine and let it settle for a minute.
- Use the dipstick to check the oil level again. Keep adding oil and checking until the level reaches the full mark on the dipstick.
- Double-check the oil level and replace the oil cap.
Best Practices for Maintaining Engine Oil
Apart from checking the engine oil level, there are some best practices that you should follow to maintain the oil in your Subaru’s engine:
- Change the engine oil and the oil filter at regular intervals as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check the oil level before taking long trips.
- Avoid overfilling your engine with oil.
- Don’t forget to check the oil level in the transmission and differential if your Subaru has all-wheel drive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What kind of oil should I use in my Subaru?
A: You should use the recommended oil viscosity by the manufacturer to ensure the best performance of your car. Check your car’s owner manual or consult a professional mechanic if unsure.
Q: Can I check the oil level when the engine is hot?
A: While it is easier to check the oil level when the engine is hot, it is not recommended. Checking the oil level when the engine is cold is the best way to get an accurate reading.
Q: Can Checking the Oil Level Make My Subaru Run Smoother?
A: Yes, keeping your engine oil at the correct level can help improve engine performance and keep your Subaru running smoother.
In conclusion, checking and maintaining the engine oil level is necessary to ensure the longevity and smooth functioning of your Subaru. It can be done easily and quickly by following the steps mentioned in this article. Make sure you are checking your engine oil regularly and following the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
