Reading the dip stick

[Ultramaroon]

Originally Posted by JD001

Just don't do it too often as you'll run out of oil..

That's how I do my oil changes.

[JD001]

Originally Posted by Ultramaroon

That's how I do my oil changes.

I do the same, but it's such a chore when refilling with new oil. I'm sure some bright spark on this forum will find a quicker way of changing oil.

[wolffbite]

Yeah it is very hard to read accurately.

+1 to using some sandpaper or scotch-brite to rough up and scour some lines. It makes it a bit better at least. If I recall correctly, you are supposed to read your oil once the car is fully warmed up and has sat for 5 minutes turned off on a level surface to get the most accurate reading.

I check mine at every other fill up, and its usually perfect timing to check the oil level right at the end of my fill up.

[Spuds]

I just hold the end of dipstick up to whatever light source I have. The light reflects better off the oil than the metal. You should see a line going across the dipstick. If you don't, then your oil is likely low.

Also, pull, wipe, insert, pull, check, wipe, insert is my method as well.

[JD001]

I am sensing a consensus forming on this thread.. common goal and technique converging on the common dip stick.. only wish other threads were as united in thought and harmony.

[Scrappydoo]

There does seem to be plenty of dip sticks on here.

[Tcoat]

Originally Posted by Spuds

Also, pull, wipe, insert, pull, check, wipe, insert is my method as well.

Originally Posted by JD001

I am sensing a consensus forming on this thread.. common goal and technique converging on the common dip stick.. only wish other threads were as united in thought and harmony.

I am not totally convinced we are still talking about checking oil here though.

[JD001]

Originally Posted by Tcoat

I am not totally convinced we are still talking about checking oil here though.

We are talking, lubrication, sticks, dipping and wiping?? What's rocking in your head Tcoat? Just lay down on the couch and spill all..

[Scrappydoo]

Originally Posted by JD001

We are talking, lubrication, sticks, dipping and wiping?? What's rocking in your head Tcoat? Just lay down on the couch and spill all..

He is trying, just give him time.

And don't look, it'll put him off.

[Ultramaroon]

Originally Posted by Spuds

I just hold the end of dipstick up to whatever light source I have. The light reflects better off the oil than the metal. You should see a line going across the dipstick. If you don't, then your oil is likely low.

Also, pull, wipe, insert, pull, check, wipe, insert is my method as well.

From an efficiency standpoint an argument could be made that the second wipe is redundant.

[Spuds]

Originally Posted by Ultramaroon

From an efficiency standpoint an argument could be made that the second wipe is redundant.

From an OCD standpoint an argument could be made that second wipe is absolutely necessary.

JK, I just do it because Im already holding the tip steady with the paper towel/rag/etc. And habit. And less chance for the oil to drip on hot things. I swear there is some logical reason for it...

[Silver Supra]

Originally Posted by Ultramaroon

From an efficiency standpoint an argument could be made that the second wipe is redundant.

Originally Posted by Spuds

From an OCD standpoint an argument could be made that second wipe is absolutely necessary.

JK, I just do it because Im already holding the tip steady with the paper towel/rag/etc. And habit. And less chance for the oil to drip on hot things. I swear there is some logical reason for it...

Nooooo. That second wipe wastes oil! That is why you have to overfill!

[Ultramaroon]

Originally Posted by Silver Supra

Nooooo. That second wipe wastes oil! That is why you have to overfill!

Another voice of reason. Thank you.

[DandoX]

Pull dipstick, wipe (obviously) then put in and give it a moment then pull it out and check BOTH sides of the dipstick. If your not sure then just repeat and maybe put the dipstick in again and repeat. I'm a paranoid dude and I check my dipstick 2-3 times, but then you know.

The car runs better in general if the oil level is at the half point or quarter point. Try not to over fill and if you do avoid reving her up too much until your next oil change.

Also if you drive your car with spirit like I do then you fall under "extreme" conditions and you should change your oil every 3700 roughly (check the manual that's what it says). Also if you use OEM oil filters here is a great site suggested in other threads for a good deal, like $6 an oil filter. http://www.subarugenuineparts.com