Dipstick
The dipstick is the metal or plastic rod used to check the engine oil level by hand.
What is Dipstick?
Some engines have no dipstick and show the oil level electronically. Automatic gearboxes sometimes have their own dipstick. The handle is usually yellow or orange. The distance between the min and max marks is usually about one litre on passenger cars, but the manual gives the exact figure.
How it works
Pull it out, wipe it, push it fully back, pull it out again and read the level between the marks.
Why it matters for your car
Check on level ground with the engine off for a few minutes. Overfilling is also harmful; stay below the max mark.
Other terms
- Alternator Diode (Rectifier)
- Brake Caliper Rebuild
- Brake Force Distribution (Brake Bias)
- Brake Squeal
- Cylinder Head Bolt
- Drive-by-wire (Electronic Throttle)
- Driving In Heavy Rain
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
- Glass Polish
- Idle Relearn (Throttle Adaptation)
- Jacking Points
- Oil Pan Gasket (Sump Gasket)
- Part-Worn Tyre
- Plug & Charge (ISO 15118)
- Service History
- Starting Handle (Crank Handle)
- Steering Angle Sensor
- Trailer Sway (Snaking)
- Wheel Arch Liner (Inner Fender)
- Windscreen Replacement