When checking the engine oil level:
1. The vehicle should be on a level surface.
2. The engine should be warm.
3. The engine should have been off for at least 5 minutes, giving the oil a chance to drain back to the oil pan.
5. Be sure the dipstick is pushed all of the way down against its seat.
6. If the oil level reading on the dipstick is unclear, try looking at the backside of the dipstick, or dip it into the oil again and attempt to read it once more.
7. If the oil level is low, check to see if the vehicle is due for service before adding a quart of new oil.