Checking Engine Oil

It is a good idea to check the engine oil level at each fuel fill.

In order to get an accurate reading, the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the engine oil dipstick.

1. If the engine has been running recently, turn off the engine and allow several minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.

Checking the oil level too soon after engine shutoff will not provide an accurate oil level reading.

2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way.

Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.

    See also:

    Engine Cooling System Messages
    ENGINE HOT A/C (AIR CONDITIONING) OFF This message displays when the engine coolant becomes hotter than the normal operating temperature. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge. To avoid add ...

    Engine Oil Change
    When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message displays, have the engine oil and filter changed within the next 1 000 km/600 mi. If driven under the best conditions, the engine oil life system migh ...

    Traction – AA, A, B, C
    The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified g ...