[header] How to check oil level in car [title] Refer to your owner's manual. [step] Mobil one and other oil manufacturers recommend checking engine oil levels before driving your vehicle, when the oil is still cold. However, some manufacturers will recommend checking the oil after you've warmed up the engine, so check your owner's manual to find the specific recommendations for your vehicle. 
You want the oil to be in the oil pan, not in the engine as it will be while you're driving. Immediately after driving, the oil level will appear lower, making it easier to overfill the oil.