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How to properly che...
 
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How to properly check the oil in my car?

  

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Topic starter

Normally, I check the oil before I start the car when the car has been sitting for a while, but I've heard from others that the oil should be checked 10-15 mins after you turn your car off so that you can get an accurate reading when the oil is warm. Is that True? 


4 Answers
2

The best practice is when the engine is warmed up, shut the car off and wait 1-2 min for the oil to drip to the oil pan and then read the level.


2

IMHO what's important is that you periodically check the oil - not which method. With modern 0W - 30/40 oils, there isn't a whole lot of difference. I've made a habit of doing a walk-around look at the tires and such and an oil check when I fill up. I figure, I'm standing outside next to my car anyway, and it takes about the same time as a fill-up.


1

What does your owner’s manual say?


0

According to the good folks at Consumer Reports, it varies by manufacturer.

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-check-car-engine-oil/#:~:text=If%20checking%20the%20oil%20yourself,engine%20has%20been%20warmed%20up.)


I personally doubt it makes enough difference to worry about.


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