sound_wave

As the topic really. I check the oil when cold - 1x down the stick. Check it when warm - full oil level.

In which situation are you supposed to check it? Hot or cold?!

martin j

IIRC when engine is at operating temp but switched off for 10 minutes to allow level to settle?

gbduo

I do it when cold and the oil is in the sump. Still works out as full when the engine is hot. As long as there is oil close to the H on the dip stick I doubt it matters that much.

GavB

Offically. Warm engine (eg you've been for a drive). Turn off and wait 3 minutes. Check Oil.

rhauri

I check mine when warm - 5 minutes to drain.

One thing I have noticed though is that one side of the dipstick reads higher than the other side - which is the reading we are looking at? Lower or higher?

Currently is max on one side and in the middle on the other.

Cheers,
Rhauri

sound_wave

I normally pull the dipstick, turn it round and replace it. Then I take my reading.

Irish TuneR

From what i've read on here, always the lower and go by that. If you want to go mad, check the oil 5 min after turning it off then when fully cold to get the happy medium

Owen_1987

I usually go for a very short drive, find flat ground and wait for approx 5 mins. After leaving it for 2-3 mins I keep checking the dipstick until I get a level line on the back and front and take that reading

rhauri

Cool, useful tips there chaps - many thanks indeed.

Rhauri

andy_intel

Also worth remembering, if you check the dipstick and it reads full on one side and shows no oil on the other, you have no oil. The level won't be the same on both sides of the dipstick but it will be close. Always check both sides of the dipstick.