Q: How do you check the engine oil?

Checking the level of oil in the engine is a critical part of general maintenance and something that you should do regularly (with every fill-up, ideally). Here’s how to do it the right way:

1. Park so the car is level.

2. Turn the engine off.

3. Wait about 10 minutes to let the oil drain back into the pan.

4. Pop the hood.

5. Locate the oil dipstick (it’s at the front of the engine).

6. Pull it out and wipe it clean.

7. Reinsert it into the tube and pull it back out again.

8. If the oil level is between the minimum and maximum lines, you’re good.

9. If the oil is below the minimum line, add a quart. Make sure you don’t overfill it.