Spotting oil-related problems

There are a few telltale signs of an oil problem, including:

• The oil warning light comes on - If the oil can-shaped warning light on the control panel doesn’t go out after you start the car, or it comes on when driving, switch off the engine and get help from a mechanic. If you keep driving, you could cause serious engine damage.

• There’s oil on your drive - Patches of oil where your car has been standing are never normal. This indicates an oil leak somewhere and should be checked ASAP.

How to top up engine oil

If the oil level is looking a bit low, you can top it up yourself by pouring more in through the oil filler cap, usually found next to the dipstick. Add a little, check the level, and then add a little more until it’s just right.

If you find you need to top up the oil regularly, it suggests there’s a leak somewhere, so it’s a good idea to get it checked by a mechanic.