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 oil must be warm and 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.

Obtaining an accurate oil level reading is essential:

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:

    Danger, Warnings, and Cautions
    Warning messages found on vehicle labels and in this manual describe hazards and what to do to avoid or reduce them. Danger indicates a hazard with a high level of risk which will result in ...

    If the Vehicle Is Stuck
    Slowly and cautiously spin the wheels to free the vehicle when stuck in sand, mud, ice, or snow. If stuck too severely for the traction system to free the vehicle, turn the traction system off and us ...

    Engine Overheating
    You will find a coolant temperature gage on your vehicle’s instrument panel. If your vehicle has a Driver Information Center (DIC), the display will show an Engine Coolant Hot/Engine Overheated ...