Knowing how much oil to put in your car is important for keeping the engine properly lubricated and running smoothly. There are a few steps you can take to determine the correct oil capacity for your vehicle.
Check Your Owner’s Manual
The easiest way to find your car’s oil capacity is to check the owner’s manual. The manual will provide the total number of quarts or liters needed, including the amount needed for both the oil pan and the oil filter. Most vehicles take 4-6 quarts of oil, but the exact number can vary considerably depending on the make, model and engine size.
Look for Capacity Specifications on the Oil Filler Cap or Dipstick
Many engines will have their oil capacity printed directly on the oil filler cap or dipstick. This takes the guesswork out of figuring out how much to add when doing an oil change. The number on the cap or dipstick represents the total capacity, so be sure to add slightly less to account for oil left in the system when draining old oil. This method provides a quick and convenient way to find the correct quantity.
Reference Your Vehicle Identification Number
You can also use your vehicle identification number (VIN) to pinpoint the factory oil capacity. The VIN is a unique serial number assigned to each vehicle that contains information about its specifications. Online resources and printed guides can decode VINs and provide oil capacities for different makes and models. This is useful when the owner’s manual or dipstick numbers are difficult to locate or read.
Use an Oil Database
There are several online databases that catalog oil capacities for most vehicles. By entering your make, model, year and engine details, these databases will provide the total oil capacity needed. Sources like OilCapacityCharts.com and AutoZone.com have comprehensive listings that can be searched by VIN as well.
Consult Your Mechanic
When all else fails, you can always ask a professional mechanic to look up the factory oil capacity specifications for your vehicle. Repair shops have access to detailed service manuals and databases that list capacities for all engine types. A quick call or visit to your mechanic can provide the exact oil quantity needed for an oil change.
Understand Oil Capacity vs Fill Quantity
It’s important to understand the difference between a vehicle’s total oil capacity and the actual amount of new oil that should be added when doing an oil change:
- Total capacity – This is the absolute maximum amount of oil the engine can hold, including the oil pan, filter, and all passages.
- Fill quantity – The amount of new oil to add during a change. This is lower than total capacity since some old oil remains in the engine.
For a regular oil change, you only need to add the fill quantity rather than the full capacity. Follow your owner’s manual or mechanic’s recommendations for the correct add amount when refilling.
Factoring in Oil Filter Capacity
When looking up oil capacities, be aware that some specifications include the volume of oil required to fill the new oil filter. Others provide the engine capacity separately. Make sure to add in the oil filter volume if it’s not already incorporated into the total. Oil filters usually hold around 3/4 to 1 quart of oil.
Measuring Oil with a Dipstick
Rather than just adding oil by quarts, you can also precisely measure the amount in your engine using the dipstick. Here is a simple process for checking levels with a dipstick:
- Park your car on a level surface and let the engine cool completely.
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag. Reinsert fully.
- Slowly remove the dipstick again. Note the oil level, which should be between the “Full” and “Add” range.
- Add oil slowly, rechecking the dipstick every 1/2 quart until it reads full.
This will help you narrow down exactly how much oil your engine needs if you are unable to find the specified capacity. Just be sure to recheck levels after driving to confirm you have achieved a proper reading.
Tips for Adding Oil
Once you know the correct amount of oil to add, follow these tips for smoothly completing the oil change:
- Locate the oil filler cap on top of the engine. Pull out the dipstick if the cap has one.
- Add oil slowly and carefully to avoid overfilling. Pour from the provided spout to minimize spillage.
- Check oil level frequently as you fill using the dipstick. Stop when you reach the full marker.
- Use a funnel if the opening is small to prevent missing the fill hole. Wipe up any spilled oil immediately.
- Replace the filler cap and dipstick when finished. Double check the level after driving a short distance.
Changing your own oil is a straightforward process if you have the right supplies and follow all the proper steps. Determining the correct oil quantity for your vehicle is the crucial starting point to get the job done right.
Signs You Need an Oil Change
Aside from following the recommended oil change intervals, watching for these common signs can alert you to the need for new oil:
- Dirty oil: Oil that becomes very dark brown or black needs changing immediately.
- Low oil level: Consistently low oil on the dipstick indicates oil consumption.
- Sludge buildup: Thick, sticky oil and greasy deposits under the cap must be flushed out.
- High miles: Most oils are only effective for about 5,000-7,500 miles.
- leaks/burning smell: Significant oil leaks or burning smells mean damaged seals or rings.
New oil can restore smooth performance, engine protection and fuel economy. Never delay an oil change when your vehicle is exhibiting symptoms of dirty oil or potential leaks or damage.
How Often to Change Oil
Routine oil changes are essential for prolonging your engine’s life and performance. Follow these general guidelines for oil change frequency:
- Every 3 months or 3,000-5,000 miles for conventional oil
- Every 6 months or 7,500-10,000 miles for synthetic blends
- Every 12 months or 10,000-15,000 miles for full synthetic oil
Severe driving conditions such as frequent towing, idling, or stop-and-go traffic require more frequent changes. Always adhere to the intervals in your vehicle owner’s manual when available.
Choosing the Right Oil Type
Make sure to select the oil viscosity and rating recommended for your vehicle when choosing new oil:
- Viscosity – This refers to the thickness of the oil. Common viscosity grades are 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W, 25W.
- Rating – Oil ratings identify performance and quality levels. Look for API “SN Plus” or better.
Consult your owner’s manual for the specific oil type required. Using the wrong viscosity or rating can hinder performance and lead to potential engine damage over time.
Recycling Used Oil
Be sure to dispose of old oil in a responsible manner. Some tips for recycling oil:
- Pour oil back into the empty containers it came in for safe transport.
- Take to a service station, quick lube or recycling center that accepts used oil.
- Contact your local government for household hazardous waste disposal.
- Never dump oil on the ground or down storm drains where it can pollute soil and waterways.
Recycling oil preserves the environment and allows the valuable petroleum products to be reused. Most auto parts stores will take your old oil for free recycling.
Conclusion
Determining the correct quantity of oil for your vehicle is a crucial first step before an oil change. Check your owner’s manual, dipstick, VIN decoders and online databases to find the recommended capacity. Be sure to use the proper viscosity and rating as well. Changing oil regularly with the right amount of fresh oil will provide maximum lubrication and engine protection.
