oil level sensor accuracy

[mcbutler]

Hello all,

I had my engine flushed during the last oil change around 4 weeks ago.
I had the clutch/DMF done since and my mechanic noticed some wetness around the sump gasket.
So, he checked the bolts, can you believe some were finger tight!! and torqued them all up, or as many as you can reach at least.

Assumption is that the engine flush solvent found the leak, much like adding anti-freeze to an engine for the first time can find water leaks.

I checked the car today, after driving it for around two weeks and around 5-600 miles. The oil level on the dash has reduced by around 25%!
It used no oil at al prior to this.

So, firstly, how much oil do we think is equivalent to 25% ON THE GAUGE (not of the total capacity)??

Has anyone had this work done, if so how much did it cost you??

Cheers chaps...

 

[Peter-E36]

As far as I know it's 1 Litre from min to max so 25% would be 250ml, but please get a second opinion or check the book to be 100% sure.

 

[mcbutler]

Your right, once the display reaches the lower mark it will display +1L.
So the amount to top up from min to max is indeed one litre.

Many thanks, cant think why I did not just check the manual!!!!

 

[flybobbie]

Having no dipstick we can't satisfy ourselves that it was full to maximum to start with, just have to trust the electronic measure.
So a car might be overfilled or just on the limit to start.
Stupid setup.

 

[Peter-E36]

Good stuff

I think BMW just want to make it so when you get the light on the dash you poor a litre in and job done. It's probably a more elegant solution for the general public but not for car people who want to have it as close to the max as possible at all times.

 

[mcbutler]

Having no dipstick we can't satisfy ourselves that it was full to maximum to start with, just have to trust the electronic measure.
So a car might be overfilled or just on the limit to start.
Stupid setup.

On the plus side certain idiots (erm hum) cannot forget to put the dipstick back before driving 340 miles to Yorkshire and undersaeling most of the engine bay and underbody on the journey.
Yes, I was that idiot................... :chairfight: