Why ? Oil level

[NickDE]

Sometimes when I press the button to check my oil level, I get an almost instant response that the oil level is OK. Other times I can sit for ages whilst the car thinks and the level display thing scrolls until I finally get the OK message. Why ? I can't spot any pattern in when it replies quickly or when it is slow.
I'm talking about a Z4C 3.0 N52.

 

[Mr Tidy]

Mine is the same - I read on here that there are all sorts of criteria that need to be met for it to give a quick reading.

There is a minimum engine temperature (mine doesn't work until I've done 5 miles or more), it has to be turning at over 1,500 rpm (hence I get no reading at traffic lights) and works best on a flat road with no sharp bends.

Which all seems to tie in with how mine does (or doesn't) work!

 

[NickDE]

Mine will give me a reading at standstill idling. I tend to check each time I fill the tank (after a two hour drive home so very warm). Same routine, same petrol station. Sometimes instant, sometimes ages.

 

[Anmarube]

I just check it on the dipstick. Done it today funnily enough as have a small gasket leak on the Oil filter housing.

 

[Mr Tidy]

I just check it on the dipstick. Done it today funnily enough as have a small gasket leak on the Oil filter housing.

The OP and I would love to be able to do that, but facelift models with the N52 engine don't have a dipstick! :roll:

 

[Anmarube]

Unbelievable that BMW don't do that, Mercedes too..
Got to be one of the simplest things to do for the owner of their car..Very quick peace of mind that all's good under the hood.

 

[ph001]

A ton of people must have fallen into this trap when doing DIY oil changes. They try to check the level at idle or just with the ignition in the accessory position. Level looks a little low so they add more oil and recheck. WTF...still reads the same...add more oil...etc etc.

Personally I think it's an awful system. Well, Ok I guess if you understand it... awful if you don't!