Check and top up engine oil
Checking the oil takes about five minutes and catches a slow leak or a thirsty engine before it becomes a repair bill.
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Last reviewed against 2 official sources.
Who this is for
Drivers of gasoline, diesel and hybrid cars with a dipstick. Some newer cars read the oil level on the dashboard instead: your owner’s manual says which you have.
How often should I check my engine oil?
Toyota suggests checking the oil level about once a month and always before a long road trip. Your owner’s manual gives the method for your engine.
From: Toyota
What you need
Tools
- A rag or paper towel
- A funnel if you need to add oil
Supplies
- Engine oil of the type and grade listed in your owner’s manual
Steps
- Park on level ground and let the engine settleChecking on a slope or straight after a drive gives a false reading. Your manual says whether to check cold or warm and how long to wait.
- Find the dipstickOpen the hood and look for a brightly colored handle, usually yellow or orange. The manual has a diagram.
- Pull it out and wipe it cleanThe first pull is only to clean the stick.
- Push it fully in, then pull it out againThe second pull is the one you read.
- Read the levelThe oil should sit between the two marks or within the cross-hatched band. Below the lower mark means add oil. Above the top mark means it may be overfilled, which can also cause harm.
- Top up a little at a timeAdd a small amount through the oil filler with a funnel, wait, and check the dipstick again. Repeat until the level is in range.
- Refit the dipstick and capPush the dipstick home, tighten the filler cap and close the hood.
Safety notes
- Parts under the hood stay hot after a drive. Keep hands and sleeves clear.
- Do not overfill. Add small amounts and recheck.
- Use the grade in your manual. fueleconomy.gov says the recommended grade can improve fuel economy by 1% to 2%.
When to call a professional
- The level drops noticeably between checks, or you see oil under the car.
- The oil looks gritty or smells burnt: Toyota notes this can mean an oil change is due.
- An oil warning light comes on while driving. Stop when it is safe and get help before driving further.
Sources
- How to Check Oil Level (opens in a new tab)Toyota · Manufacturer
- Keeping Your Vehicle in Shape (opens in a new tab)fueleconomy.gov (U.S. Department of Energy and EPA) · Government
This guide is general information written in our own words from the sources above. Your owner’s manual and the instructions for your own equipment come first.
Tell it once. It remembers.
About once a month and before long trips.