Oil is necessary to lubricate your engine. You need to keep the oil at the level recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Check regularly and top up the oil when necessary, especially before a long journey.
Preferably, check the oil level every time you fill up with fuel.
The dipstick will tell you the amount of oil in the engine. See owner's handbook.
You should check the oil while the engine is cold for a more accurate result. You'll need a clean, dry cloth to wipe the dipstick.
Take particular care if your vehicle is fitted with automatic transmission. There may be an additional dipstick for transmission oil level checks. Consult the handbook.
Observe manufacturers recommendations. If a large number of short journeys are involved, change the oil at more frequent intervals, especially in dusty conditions. Remember to have the oil filter changed at the same time.
Oil is toxic and can cause skin problems. Use protective gloves or a barrier cream and always wash oil off your hands immediately.
Keep containers storing oil out of reach of children.
The amount of oil an engine will use depends on
If the oil pressure warning light on your instrument panel comes on when you're driving, stop as soon as you can and check the level.
The oil in your engine has to perform several tasks at high pressures and temperatures up to 300°C. It helps to
It also has to withstand gradual contamination from both fuel and dirt.
Make sure you always use the lubricants recommended in the handbook.
Most vehicles, an exception being front-wheel drive vehicles, have a separate lubricating oil supply for the gearbox and final drive.
Consult your vehicle handbook, or mechanic, for further advice.
Vehicles today use a mixture of water and anti-freeze to make up the coolant as this helps to keep most engines comparatively cool, and is kept in the radiator all the year round.
The anti-freeze contains a corrosion inhibitor which reduces rust and oxidation in alloy engines and it prolongs the life of the system. In cold weather, maintain the recommended strength of anti-freeze. Have it checked at least annually - late summer or early autumn is best.
You should frequently check the coolant level, particularly before a long trip, topping up with coolant as necessary. Look for the high/low level markings on the header tank, where one is fitted. The need to top up often might indicate a leak or other fault in the cooling system. Have it checked by your garage/dealer.
It's a good idea always to carry a supply of coolant with you.