ABDomega

I’ve noticed differences in oil level readings based on time and engine temp (warm vs. cold). The owner’s manual recommends the following: “Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.” I also assume this is what the dealer does when reading oil level for a consumption test. On that recommendation, the level of oil in my pan is as follows:

Reading after 10 minutes.


Reading after 20 minutes.


No discernible difference in readings. Both appear to be ¼ quart low.

However, if I am to wait for car to cool (so overnight - in this case, 11 hours) this is the reading I get:


There appears to be a 1/2 quart variation in readings from warm to cold.

Now I’m fine if I’m told to go pound salt because there is no issue here. Only one reading matters: warm. The second reading just doesn’t count and if it even reads a full quart low, the lowest I’m at warm is likely 1/2 quart.

What’s the consensus? Should I ignore the cold reading and focus only on the warm reading? Also, does expansion of the oil and engine parts, pan, etc. account for the variation? I’ve seen some people with variations in the opposite direction (i.e. more time leads to more oil in the pan and therefore a reading higher on the dipstick). Thoughts?

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

yes, ignore COLD reading.
the engine is cold and the oil isnt circulating.

aznboi2424

iTrader: (10)

Follow the owner's manual.

ExcelerateRep

This is a pretty regular phenomenon for most vehicles. Getting a reading with the oil warm is key.

SinCity-TL

Yep that's the way it works, just remember check oil warm and tires cold. When all else fails the manual is your friend.