How to Check Your Car’s Water and Oil Levels

Your engine is basically a very expensive, very grumpy machine that hates being neglected. Two of the easiest ways to keep it happy? Checking your oil and coolant levels regularly. These quick checks take less than five minutes, cost nothing, and can save you from overheating, engine damage, and a repair bill that makes you want to sit down for a moment. 

This guide will show you exactly how to check both fluids safely at home, with no mechanical experience required. 

Why Checking Your Oil and Coolant Levels Matters 

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car. It lubricates all the moving parts inside your engine, reduces friction, and helps prevent overheating. When oil levels drop too low, metal grinds against metal and that’s an expensive sound to ignore. 

Coolant (also called antifreeze or engine coolant) works alongside your radiator to regulate engine temperature and stop things from getting too hot or too cold. Low coolant means your engine is at risk of overheating, which can cause serious, sometimes irreversible damage. 

The good news? Catching low fluid levels early is simple. The bad news? Most drivers don’t check until something goes wrong. 

How Often Should You Check Your Car’s Fluids? 

A good rule of thumb is to check your oil and coolant once a month or before any long road trip. If your car hasn’t been serviced recently, or if you’ve noticed any unusual behaviour from your vehicle, check them sooner. 

Regular fluid checks are part of routine vehicle maintenance that helps you spot small problems before they become expensive ones. Think of it as a 5-minute investment with a potentially massive return. 

How to Check Your Engine Oil Level 

Before you start: make sure your engine is cold (or has been off for at least 10 minutes) and your car is parked on level ground. 

  1. Open the bonnet and locate the dipstick. It usually has a brightly coloured handle (yellow or orange) and sits near the engine. 
  2. Pull the dipstick out fully and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel. 
  3. Reinsert the dipstick all the way, then pull it out again. 
  4. Check where the oil sits on the dipstick, there are two markings indicating minimum and maximum levels. Your oil level should sit between these two marks. 
  5. Also check the oil’s condition. Healthy oil is amber-brown. Dark, sludgy, or milky oil could signal it’s time for a change, or something more serious. 

If your oil level is low, top it up with the correct grade of oil for your vehicle (check your owner’s manual). If you’re unsure, the team at Midas can help. 

How to Check Your Car’s Coolant (Water) Level 

Important: never check your coolant when the engine is hot. A hot radiator cap is under pressure and opening it can cause serious burns. Always wait until the engine is completely cool. 

  1. Locate the coolant reservoir, it’s a translucent plastic tank, usually near the radiator, with a brightly coloured cap. 
  2. Without opening the cap, check the coolant level by looking at the markings on the outside of the tank. The fluid should sit between the minimum and maximum lines. 
  3. If the level is low, carefully remove the cap (only when the engine is cold) and top up with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water, or a pre-mixed coolant product. 

If your coolant keeps running low, that could indicate a leak or another underlying issue — worth getting checked out by a professional. 

Signs Your Car May Have Low Oil or Coolant 

Your car will usually give you warning signs before things go badly wrong. Watch out for: 

  • The oil pressure warning light or engine temperature light appearing on your dashboard 
  • Your temperature gauge creeping into the red zone 
  • Unusual knocking or ticking noises from the engine 
  • Steam or smoke coming from under the bonnet 
  • A sweet or unusual smell around your vehicle (can indicate a coolant leak) 
  • Visible puddles of fluid underneath your parked car 

If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Pull over safely, let the engine cool, and get it checked as soon as possible. 

When to Book a Professional Vehicle Service 

Checking your own fluid levels is a great habit but it’s not a substitute for regular professional servicing. A qualified mechanic will inspect far more than just fluid levels, checking your brakes, tyres, cooling system, and more to make sure your vehicle is safe and running at its best. 

If you’re not confident checking your fluids, have noticed low levels, or it’s been a while since your last service, then it’s time to book a vehicle inspection with Midas.  

Our team of trusted local mechanics will give your car a thorough once-over and let you know exactly what it needs – no jargon, no fluff, just honest advice. 

Explore our full range of services including logbook services, extensive services, and vehicle diagnostics at Midas, because your car deserves better.