12 Car Hacks That Can Help You Steer Clear of Any Trouble

9. Using Paper as a Makeshift Funnel for Adding Oil

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Every automobile owner should be familiar with the important chore of adding oil for maintenance of their vehicle. But occasionally you might have to top off your oil, but discover you lack a suitable funnel. In these situations, a basic piece of paper might be a creative temporary fix that lets you add oil to your engine without losing valuable motor fuel or creating mess. Although making a paper funnel is simple, some attention is needed to guarantee effectiveness. Start by choosing a strong piece of paper—a page from a magazine or a sheet from a notebook would work nicely. The secret is to select paper that is not so hard that it cannot be readily manipulated but thick enough to retain its form when folded. Steer clear of newsprint since the ink could disintegrate in oil and might possibly contaminate your engine. Start by folding the paper diagonally from one corner to the opposite edge to form a triangular shape and then the funnel. Roll the paper then into a cone such that one end is noticeably smaller than the other. The broader end should be big enough to readily pour oil into; the smaller end should be small enough to fit into the oil fill port on your car. Use a little bit of tape to fasten the paper in its conical form once you have the intended shape. Use caution not to use too much tape; you want none to unintentionally wind up in the engine. You really should examine the integrity of your homemade funnel before utilizing it. Holding it up to the light can help you to make sure there are no holes or thin areas allowing oil leakage. If you discover any weak places, it's advisable to start afresh on fresh paper instead of running the danger of oil leaks. Once your paper funnel's construction makes sense, gently slide the narrow end into the oil fill inlet. Ensuring a tight fit helps to stop any oil from seeping around the edges. Pouring the oil, do it steadily and slowly. Take extra caution to prevent spills; the paper funnel might not be as steady as a proper plastic or metal funnel. Watch the oil level as you pour; be ready to stop fast should necessary. Having a rag or paper towels on available helps one to collect any drips and clean up should a little spill arise. Although in a hurry a paper funnel can be a lifesaver, keep in mind that it's only a makeshift fix. Over time, the oil might weaken the paper; thus, avoid leaving the funnel in place for long intervals. Once you have added the required oil, gently remove the paper funnel and discard it correctly. Never try to recycle a paper funnel since it may have absorbed oil and, should it be used once again, might contaminate your engine. Although this do-it-yourself fix is efficient, it should not take place in place of having appropriate tools for routine vehicle maintenance. Along with other necessary tools and supplies, a dedicated funnel for your car is always wise. Knowing how to make a paper funnel, however, can be quite helpful in an emergency or when you find yourself suddenly needing to add oil without the necessary tools on hand. Remember, it's important to use the right kind and quantity of oil for your particular car independent of the technique employed for addition. If you're not sure about the suitable oil specs or the right technique for adding oil to your engine, always refer to the handbook or a professional mechanic. Maintaining the condition of your engine and guaranteeing the lifetime of your car depend on regular oil inspections and quick top-ups.