Checking the Oil

[dmsmith401]

Hi Guys

I know these cars dont usually use much oil, however its obviously important to keep an eye on the level. My problem is, EVERYTIME i check the oil on the dipstick it doesnt give a clear indication of what the level is - high, low or whatever. The bottom of the dippy is covered in oil. I know the engine needs to be at operating temperature before checking but are there any other pointers I can take on?

 

[mmm-five]

Once you've let the car rest for a minute after turning the engine off (you did rememeber to do that) wiped the dipstick (and that), simply dip it back in to its fullest extent and the pull out.

The oil level should be shown between two 'balls' on the bottom of the dipstick about 2 inches apart.

The maximum level is at the top (about 1/2 inch below the top 'ball') and the minimum is about 1/2 inch above the lower ball.
The difference between the mark on the top and bottom equates to just over 1L of oil.

The manual recommends that you only top up when the level is near the minimum mark to avoid over-filling.

Mine's used 200ml in 20,000 miles - although it has had oil services and an inspection in that time.

 

[TheRealDC]

Guys

Not that I'm recommending relying on this, but doesn't the 3.2 M engine have an oil level sensor? I'm sure my old E46 M3 once only popped a warning light on the dash advising low oil level ...



DC

 

[mmm-five]

Guys
Not that I'm recommending relying on this, but doesn't the 3.2 M engine have an oil level sensor? I'm sure my old E46 M3 once only popped a warning light on the dash advising low oil level ...
DC

It does indeed have a low oil level warning light, and a low oil pressure light - but I always think that you should be checking the level once a week anyway (or at each fill up) so you can track any leaks or excessive usage - same with coolant and tyre pressures.

 

[Andy]

Coming from an Alfa Twinspark I was soooo used to doing this, but I've never ever need to fill mine, it's used barely a drop in 40k.. which I think says a lot about the engine.