HOW OFTEN TO CHECK ENGINE OIL

Castrol recommend checking engine oil every couple of weeks (or 1000 miles) and always before a long trip.

How often should you check your engine oil?

Here at Castrol, most of our people pop the bonnet and check their oil level at least every couple of weeks (or 1000 miles), and always before a long trip. It only takes a minute to check and top up if necessary, and it might add years of reliable, powerful and economical driving to the life of your engine.

Naturally, it's essential to change your engine oil at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer. In the days before oil level sensors, many drivers checked their oil at the dipstick at least once a week.

Unless you're running an older car, that may not be necessary these days. Having said that, new cars can still require topping up so it is important to check your oil level regularly.

Whatever vehicle you are driving, environmental factors such as fuel quality, extreme temperatures or stop-and-go driving can increase the amount of oil your engine uses.

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How to check your engine oil

Running with a low oil level is incredibly bad for your engine, so it's important to check your engine oil regularly. Don't rely on dashboard warning lights alone; checking engine oil at the dipstick is a simple but important car maintenance task that absolutely everyone can do at home.

How to top up your car engine oil

Most cars use a little engine oil over time so it is essential to maintain the right level of engine oil by topping up with the right oil whenever your dipstick check says your oil level is low.

Why you should use synthetic oil

Why choose full synthetic engine oil? Even if your warranty doesn't depend on you choosing synthetic engine oil, it's still the strongest and best choice for every engine. As long as you choose the right grade and specification of synthetic oil, it is guaranteed to exceed the manufacturer's requirements and give your engine the best possible protection.

How to recycle your used engine oil

While oil is a natural resource, it occurs deep in the ground where it can't damage plant and animal life. It's vitally important that any used engine oil from home car maintenance makes it to a recycling centre, as this ensures that it won't leak into the ground, potentially causing hazards to wildlife and water resources.