Engine oil is the lifeblood of any car; it not only lubricates the moving metal parts but also helps cool the engine and prevent wear of its internal components. Maintaining this lifeline requires careful monitoring, as any shortage or excess of oil can lead to serious damage, sometimes resulting in complete engine failure.

For this reason, the German automotive magazine “Auto Zeitung” advises regularly checking the oil level, not only to ensure the quantity but also to monitor its color and consistency as indicators of engine health.

The magazine explains that low oil levels deprive the engine of sufficient lubrication, causing increased friction and heat, which can lead to premature damage or even complete engine shutdown.

Conversely, excess oil is equally dangerous, as it causes foam formation that reduces lubrication effectiveness and raises pressure inside the engine, potentially damaging seals and negatively affecting the exhaust system.

The issue is not just about oil quantity; the oil’s color and texture can reveal the engine’s condition:

Therefore, the magazine recommends adhering to regular inspections, using the oil recommended by the manufacturer, and following scheduled oil changes to avoid premature wear and reduce repair costs.

To manually check the oil:

• Park the car on level ground.
• In cars with a digital display, oil level can be checked via the system menu. If a warning appears or the oil pressure light turns on, stop immediately and ensure the oil is filled to the required level, adding gradually to avoid exceeding the maximum limit.

The German magazine emphasizes the importance of using oil that matches the manufacturer’s viscosity specifications (SAE), as unsuitable oil may damage the engine. Oil should only be added through the designated filler opening and never poured via the dipstick tube.

If the oil warning light remains on after adjusting the level, this indicates a fault in the oil pump or other essential engine components, requiring immediate stop and professional workshop assistance.