When checking the engine oil on a cold engine, what should you do?

To check the engine oil on a cold engine, using a dipstick is the correct method. The dipstick provides an accurate measurement of the oil level in the engine, which is crucial for maintaining proper lubrication and ensuring that the engine operates efficiently. When the engine is cold and sits for a while, oil settles to the bottom of the oil pan, allowing for a more accurate reading on the dipstick.

Additionally, using the dipstick allows the technician to not only check the oil level but also to inspect the oil's condition. This can be done by looking for signs of contamination, discoloration, or debris, which can indicate potential engine issues. Running the engine prior to checking the oil can lead to inaccurate readings since the oil is circulated throughout the engine and might not reflect the true level when it settles back after shutdown.

In contrast, checking the oil filter or inspecting the coolant level is not the correct focus when assessing engine oil levels. The oil filter is vital for the operation of the engine but does not provide information regarding the oil level, and coolant level pertains to the cooling system rather than lubrication.