Buying a secondhand car in New Zealand requires time and patience to find a suitable vehicle. One of the significant things to check when buying a used car is the “engine oil”. Engine oil keeps the engine cool by lubricating engine components and reducing wear.
By inspecting the oil, you can get an idea of the car’s history and overall health, so before sealing a deal, take 5 minutes to examine it. It can save you thousands in repairs. In this guide, we will learn how to check engine oil, what to look for, and what it tells us about the vehicle.
Engine oil is important for keeping a car running smoothly. It helps to:
Checking the engine oil is the simplest and easiest way to estimate the overall health of a vehicle. By examining the oil, you can identify any hidden issues.
Choosing the right engine oil is important for a car’s health and performance. The right oil gives your car’s engine a long and healthy life. Common types include:
Mineral oil: It is a basic oil that is suitable for older vehicles. While it is generally cheaper, it needs to be replaced more frequently.
Synthetic oil: It provides better protection under extreme temperatures, lasts longer, and increases engine efficiency.
Semi-synthetic oil: It is a mixture of mineral and synthetic oils; it provides a balance of protection and affordability.
Oil grades, such as 5W-30 and 10W-40, indicate the viscosity and suitability for specific climates and engine types. It’s important to use oil suitable for both city driving and varying seasonal temperatures. During inspection, verifying the type of oil can indicate whether previous owners used the proper maintenance practices.
By following these steps, you can get an accurate idea of the oil level reading.
Step 1: Park your car on a plan surface
Step 2: Locate the Dipstick
Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully. Remove it again to check the oil.
Step 3: Check the Oil Level
Oil should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. Low oil indicates leaks, neglect, or prolonged periods without topping up.
Step 4: Inspect Color and Texture
Golden/light brown: Indicates a very healthy oil
Dark/black: Overdue for a change, may indicate maintenance lapses
Milky/frothy: Could signal coolant contamination or internal engine issues
Thick/sludgy: Poor maintenance history and potential engine wear
Step 5: Smell the Oil
If the smell is like burnt, it means the engine is overheating or there are other serious issues requiring mechanical attention.
Well-maintained cars: Generally have clean oil at the correct level, which indicates a proper service history.
Neglected vehicles: Dirty or inconsistent oil suggests a lack of maintenance, which means higher repair costs in the future.
Potential engine problems: Contaminated, milky, or frothy oil indicates serious issues like coolant leaks or worn internal components.
By following these tips, you can get an estimate about a vehicle’s maintenance history.
Request for service history: Check for regular oil changes, mileage at last service, and type of oil used.
Look for leaks: Inspect under the car and around the engine for oil seepage.
Mechanical inspection: If you are unsure, a certified mechanic can provide a detailed evaluation.
High-mileage vehicles: High mileage requires frequent oil changes and maintenance; consider this when budgeting for repairs or replacement parts.
Poorly maintained oil can have a direct impact on the car’s health costs:
Dirty oil increases engine wear, potentially leading to expensive repairs.
An incorrect oil type can reduce engine efficiency, fuel economy, and lifespan.
Cars with neglected oil histories may be more suitable for parting out or recycling, which is a valuable option for high-kilometer vehicles.
Engine oil is a harmful substance that can harm the environment. It’s important to handle it carefully—avoid spills on driveways or roads. Used oil should be collected and disposed of at approved NZ recycling centers.
By understanding proper engine oil handling, buyers can protect both their vehicle investment and the environment.
If the engine oil is contaminated and a warning signal is displayed, consider the implications before purchasing the vehicle. The repair costs can range from $100 to $2,000, depending on the severity of the issue. In such cases, it is wiser to walk away from buying that vehicle. Ultimately, these vehicles can only be sold to car wreckers, who will be willing to buy them.
Every few weeks or before long trips. Always check oil as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Yes. Old or contaminated oil increases friction, generates overheating, and can lead to engine failure.
It may signal coolant contamination, often due to issues like a blown head gasket.
Inspect the oil thoroughly first, and if necessary, use the type and amount recommended by the manufacturer.
Take it to approved recycling centers or local service stations. Never pour it on the ground or into drains.
The best engine oil for a vehicle in New Zealand’s climate is primarily determined by the manufacturer’s recommendations, which can be found in the owner’s manual.
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