If your car is running low on oil it may start to make strange noises. These noises can range from a light tapping sound to a loud knocking noise. The tapping sound is usually an indication that your car’s engine is running low on oil and is trying to tell you to add more. The knocking noise is usually an indication that your car is running out of oil and is in danger of damaging the engine.
If your car starts to make either of these noises you should check the oil level as soon as possible. To do this you will need to open the hood of your car and locate the dipstick. The dipstick is usually located near the front of the engine and it has a handle that is marked with “oil” or a picture of an oil can.
Once you have located the dipstick pull it out and wipe it off with a clean rag. Then insert the dipstick back into the engine and pull it out again. This time you will be able to see how much oil is on the dipstick. If the oil level is below the “full” mark then you will need to add oil to your car.
To add oil to your car you will need to locate the oil fill cap. This is usually located on the side of the engine and it will have a picture of an oil can on it. Once you have located the oil fill cap unscrew it and pour oil into the engine. Be sure to pour slowly as you don’t want to overfill the engine.
Once you have added oil to the engine screw the oil fill cap back on and close the hood of your car. You should then be able to resume driving without any problems. However if the noise persists you may want to take your car to a mechanic to have it checked out.
How often should you change your car’s oil?
Every 5000 miles.
How do you know if your car needs oil?
Check the dipstick.
How do you check the oil level?
Pull out the dipstick wipe it off re-insert it and then check the level.
What are the consequences of not changing your oil?
Your car will eventually break down and will need expensive repairs.
How often should you change your oil filter?
Every other oil change.
What is the oil filter for?
The oil filter keeps contaminants out of the engine oil.
What are the consequences of not changing your oil filter?
The oil will not be as effective in lubricating and cooling the engine and eventually the engine will fail.
How do you know when to change your air filter?
Check your car’s manual.
What are the consequences of not changing your air filter?
Your car will have reduced fuel efficiency and performance.
How do you know when to change your spark plugs?
Check your car’s manual.
What are the consequences of not changing your spark plugs?
Poor engine performance and fuel economy.
How do you know when to change your coolant?
Check your car’s manual.
What are the consequences of not changing your coolant?
Your car will overheat and could cause engine damage.
How do you know when to change your transmission fluid?
Check your car’s manual.
What are the consequences of not changing your transmission fluid?
Your car will have reduced performance and fuel economy and eventually the transmission will fail.
