Checking Engine Oil
It is a good idea to check the engine oil level every time you get fuel.
The engine oil dipstick is located behind the cab on the driver's side of the vehicle. It can be reached without tilting the cab.
In order to get an accurate reading, the engine should be at normal operating temperature, so that the oil is warm, and the vehicle must be on level ground.
- If the engine is at normal operating temperature and the oil is warm, turn off the engine and allow at least five minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan. If you do not do this, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.
- Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or a cloth, then push it back in all the way.
- Remove the dipstick again, keeping the tip down, and check the oil level.
If the engine has not been run long enough to bring it up to normal operating temperature and the oil is cool, turn off the engine and allow 30 minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan. If you do not do this, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.
When to Add Engine Oil
If the oil is below the lower hole at the tip of the dipstick, you will need to add at least one quart/liter of oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications .
Notice: Do not add too much oil. If the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the upper hole that shows the proper operating range, the engine could be damaged.
Be sure to add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you are through.
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use
Look for these two things:
| • | CI-4 or CH-4 |
| Oils designated as API CI-4 or CH-4 are recommended for your vehicle. The CI-4 or CH-4 designations may appear either alone, together, or in combination with other API designations, such as API CI-4/SL. |
| These letters show American Petroleum Institute (API) levels of quality. |
Notice: Use only engine oils that have one of these designations, CI-4 or CH-4, for the diesel engine. Failure to use the recommended oils can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty.
| • | SAE 15W-40 |
| As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 15W-40 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 10W-30 at temperatures above 0°F (-18°C). When it is very cold, below 0°F (-18°C), you should use SAE 5W-40 to improve cold starting. 5W-40 is not recommended for use at high temperatures, above 100°F (38°C). |
| These numbers on the oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 10W-40 or SAE 20W-50. |
This doughnut-shaped logo (symbol) is used on most oil containers to help you select the correct oil. It means that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute.
You should look for this on the oil container, and use only those oils that display this logo.
Engine Oil Additives
Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils with the API service symbol are all you will need for good performance and engine protection.
When to Change Engine Oil (Vehicles Without the Engine Oil Life System)
Change engine oil and filter every 12,000 miles (20 000 km), or every 12 months, or every 600 hours of engine operation, whichever occurs first. See Scheduled Maintenance .
