A survey by the AA has found that 32% of drivers do not check their car’s oil level before a summer road trip.
When the dipstick measures below the minimum line, 92% reported that they check and top up the oil, while 3% did not know what to do.
The survey found that 81% of drivers change their oil when it looks black and sludgy.
23% of drivers do not change their oil when it looks creamy, foamy, or milky, while 5% do not check the oil level when the oil pressure warning light comes on.
Shaun Jones, AA Patrol of the Year, said: “With a low oil level, there’s less lubricant for the bearings and other moving parts in your engine.
“This can lead to low oil pressure, where metal rubs on metal, quickly causing irreversible and expensive damage. This could lead to a breakdown.
“Checking and topping up your engine oil is one of the most important car maintenance tasks and it’s also one of the simplest to do by yourself.”
Just 0.4% of respondents reported that they had an electric vehicle (EV), and did not need to check their oil level.
The survey also found that 40% of drivers do not change their oil annually, while 39% of drivers are not changing their oil every 10,000 miles.
31% of drivers said they check and top up oil every 12 months.
Jones said: “Don’t leave it until your next yearly garage service – you should be checking your oil every few weeks and especially before long journeys.
“Putting too much oil into your car is just as bad as having too little. So make sure you don’t overdo it.”
When checking your oil level, the AA recommends ensuring the engine is cold, and the vehicle is on level ground.
When topping up oil, the AA recommends checking which oil your car needs in its handbook, or checking which oil is recommended for your car on the oil manufacturer’s website.
