manual check of engine oil level

[uumode]

To correctly read the dip stick level, should you read the level when the engine is cold (oil in the sump) or shortly after stopping the car (oil around the system)?

 

[imadoofus]

Cold. That way you see exactly how much is in the sump. If you do it hot, then you get a false reading, as the internals are all coated, so there will be less in the sump, and you risk over-filling.

PJ

 

[uumode]

Hmm maybe I have a problem with my (second) car
the dip stick reading is higher when the engine is warm (up to the max mark) and 3/4 when it is cold.

 

[imadoofus]

That's possible. As I said, when warm, oil has been distributed around the engine internals, and will be coating them. This includes the dipstick.


Correct method is: Engine cold; remove dipstick; clean it off; replace it; then remove again. Take your reading at that point.

PJ

 

[uumode]

ah right.

Thanks for your assistance

 

[silverarrow]

depends on the car in question eg jaguar say wait 5 mins but afaik its best to check on a cold block with most cars i have found cold means stone cold fully synth oil at 0w and 5 w takes a long time to hit the sump
so many cars have way too much oil which is not good modern oils do not burn off as easy

 

[BTB 500]

To correctly read the dip stick level, should you read the level when the engine is cold (oil in the sump) or shortly after stopping the car (oil around the system)?

Check the manual. On my R129 the oil level must be checked with the engine warm, but after a 5 minute delay (to allow draining back into the sump). If in doubt do it that way ... then you won't over-fill (which could cause cat. damage).