5 Easy Ways to Check Your Truck’s Oil at Home

Driving a truck long distances, who doesn’t want a smooth and safe journey? My Uncle Ba, a lifelong truck driver, always reminded us of this saying whenever we talked about vehicles. However, life isn’t always a dream. Once, my uncle almost had an accident simply because he forgot to check the oil in his “stallion.” Here’s the story…

One scorching hot day, Uncle Ba was transporting goods from a warehouse on Nguyen Van Linh Street, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, all the way to the Southern Truck Station. The roads were jammed, and he was rushing to make his delivery on time, so he kept driving without a second thought about checking his truck. Suddenly, on a deserted stretch of road, the truck started sputtering, and smoke billowed out. It turned out that due to neglecting oil changes for too long, coupled with the intense heat and overloaded engine, the engine had seized. Luckily, the road was empty, and my uncle managed to pull over in time; otherwise, the consequences could have been disastrous.

Since then, Uncle Ba always reminds us that for a healthy truck and worry-free long hauls, regular oil checks are crucial. So, how do you check your truck’s oil accurately and effectively? Let’s explore the details in this article from XE TẢI HÀ NỘI.

1. Why Should You Check Your Truck’s Oil Regularly?

Truck oil, also known as engine oil, plays a vital role in lubricating, cooling, sealing, and cleaning the engine. Regularly checking your truck’s oil is essential to ensure stable operation, longevity, and prevent costly damage. This is especially important for heavy-duty trucks that frequently carry bulky cargo and travel long distances.

If you own a Thaco or Hyundai truck, two popular truck brands in Vietnam, regular oil checks are non-negotiable.

2. When Should You Check Your Truck’s Oil?

• Regular Checks: As recommended by manufacturers, you should check your truck’s oil at least once a month or every 5,000 kilometers.
• Check When There Are Unusual Signs: If you notice signs like strange engine noises, the engine oil warning light illuminating, sluggish performance, or difficulty accelerating, you should check the oil immediately.

3. 5 Simple Ways to Check Your Truck’s Oil

Here are 5 simple ways to check your truck’s oil easily at home:

Method 1: Checking the Oil with the Dipstick

This is the most traditional and straightforward method.

• Step 1: Park your truck on a level surface, turn off the engine, and wait 5-10 minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.
• Step 2: Open the hood and locate the dipstick (usually yellow or orange).
• Step 3: Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a soft cloth, and reinsert it fully.
• Step 4: Remove the dipstick again and observe:
  • Oil Level: It should be between the “Min” and “Max” marks on the dipstick.
  • Oil Color: New oil is typically honey-colored and translucent. Old, dirty oil will be black and opaque.
  • Oil Viscosity: Place a drop of oil on your finger and rub it gently. If the oil is smooth and flows evenly, it’s in good condition.

Method 2: Checking the Oil via the Oil Pressure Sensor

Most modern trucks are equipped with an oil pressure sensor.

• Step 1: Start the engine and observe the oil pressure gauge on the dashboard.
• Step 2: Ensure the needle is within the safe zone (usually indicated by a green area on the gauge).

Method 3: Checking the Oil via the Warning System

Newer trucks often have a warning system that detects oil-related issues.

• Observe the oil warning light (symbol of an oil can with a drop underneath) on the dashboard. If the light is on, the truck may be low on oil or there might be a problem with the lubrication system.

Method 4: Checking the Oil Visually

You can perform a preliminary check of your truck’s oil by looking under the vehicle.

• Check for oil leaks. If you find oil stains under the truck, take it to a garage for inspection and timely repairs.

Method 5: Using Professional Diagnostic Equipment

At garages and truck service centers, oil checks are performed using specialized equipment.

• These devices provide accurate and detailed information about the oil’s condition, giving you a clear understanding of your engine’s “health.”