In order for a car to perform properly, it needs to proper amount of fluids to ensure that all moving parts can continuously move with ease. There are many types of fluids in your car's engine and knowing how to properly check them is important. Use the guide below to learn how to properly check the oil in your car for the first time.

Prepare to Check the Oil Level

The first thing you want to do is make sure that you park your vehicle on level ground. If you park on a hill, you will not be able to accurately gauge how much oil is in the reservoir. You also want to be sure that the engine is off and cool before checking the oil to ensure that it is not hot when you go to check it.

Check the Oil Level

Look for a cap that has a picture of an oil bottle with a drop of oil dripping out of it. It is often black or grey in color. There should be a small metal stick sticking up out of the engine located near this cap that you can pull completely out of the engine. It will only be a few millimeters in width. Pull the dipstick out and clean it off. Put it back into the hole and pull it out again. When you look at the bottom of the stick, you should see a line where the oil stops. On the stick is a gauge that lets you know if you need to add oil or if it is at the proper level.

Add Oil If Needed

If you have to add oil, you first need to look at the owner's manual of your vehicle to find out what type of oil your vehicle requires. You do not want to put in the wrong oil, as it could cause damage to your engine. When you go to an automotive supply store, you can give an associate the year, make, and model of your car and they can determine the type of oil it takes, as well. Once you have the proper oil, unscrew the cap that has the picture of the oil in it and put it to the side. Place a funnel in the opening of the hole and pour as many quarts of oil into the funnel as indicated by the dipstick. Remove the funnel and replace the cap.

If you notice that there are often oil spots under your car after you have parked your vehicle, there is a chance that you may have an oil leak. It is a good idea to have a mechanic look over any car that has a leak as soon as possible so that the problem does not become worse.