So I just read a conflicting report on something I've been doing a certain way since I've been driving my car.

I read this morning when checking your oil on a D-Series engine you should check it while the engine is cold?

I have been lead to believe since I started driving in 1996 you warm the engine, then let it sit for 5 minutes, then check the oil level.

I read this from a pretty reputable source which is why I pose this new thread.

Whats your thoughts? I know I get completely different levels when I check the oil warm/cold?

 

it dont really matter just keep the oil between the 2 dots

there probably getting at it ending up back in the pan the oil that goes up into the head and what not but there better be enough to have some on the stick even if its running

 

This^

 

Check the oil cold while on a level surface.

 

Oh the stories I have of friends with ramped drive ways checking their oil...or checking it while the front is on jack stands.

Yes, I have stupid friends.

 

That's interesting because the owners manual says "check the engine oil a couple of minutes after shutting off the engine". Now this is mainly due to the fact that you need to allow the oil to go to the bottom of the pan but also assumes you can check it when hot or warm as well.

 

there's two ways i like to check oil. the first way is in the morning before i turn on the car. 2nd, is turn on the car and let it idle for a few seconds, shut it off, pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean. put the dipstick back in and check the oil level. make sure the vehicle is on flat surface.

 

Then I really was low on oil


thanks guys...

 

The FSM confirms this as well which would indicate either way. I don't think oil expands enough to throw off the reading by any substantial amount like transmission fluid. Just make sure to give it enough time to drain back down (a couple of minutes) if you are checking it after driving.