Honda civic 2011. When i check the dipstick, the front part is full bat the back part of the dipstick is half. What should I consider correct reading. And is it normal that when checking the oil immediately after long drive, the oil level is lower?
Let the car for about 10 minutes so the oil can drain back to the oil pan so that you can get an accurate reading.
You're probably already doing this, however when you first pull the dipstick you should wipe it down, reinsert and pull it out again for an accurate reading.
The front part of the dipstick that shows the high, low, and the crosshatches should be used for the correct oil level.
Shutting down a hot engine and immediately checking the oil could show a lower level due to all of the oil not fully returning to the pan before you check it.
you need to keep dipping the stick until you get a consistent reading. Usually the back is more accurate.
Both the front and the back have hash marks. I actually checked the oil after turning the engine on for about a minute. Did I get a wrong reading?
of course. Starting the engine runs the oil pump. Let it settle.
Refer to operating manual for oil checking procedure.
Thanks for correcting me on that MMJ, I wasn't aware that the back (usually) would be more accurate in this type of situation.
This is what I will do. Check the engine oil in the morning before the switching on the engine. Make sure the ground is level. Check the engine oil when the oil is dirty so it will be obvious.
Print the dipstick on a tissue paper. The lower mark is the right one.
There are some guys who sandpaper the dipstick a little so the oil sticks better. Remember to wipe clean with de greaser after sanding.
That's interesting, I've never heard of using sandpaper to rough up a dipstick in order for the oil to stick better. I have to say, that really doesn't sound like the correct thing to do? The crosshatches were designed by the engineers and should collect and hold enough oil for a good reading.
I have never done that. If there is enough oil in it and it is good, you don't need to do this.
Mine doesnt have those crosshatches. Just 2 dots.
by dot, do you mean hole?
If the hole is full of oil (verify this with a few dips), then the oil reaches that level.
Pain between the holes, you'll see it then. I use a paint pen for this job.
make that Paint between the holes.
I usually pull the dipstick, wipe it down with carb cleaner and paint between the marks with white or yellow pain and let it dry. That way, I can see exactly where the level is between the marks.
They keep making those marks smaller and smaller don't they? {pear}:nerd:
The dip sticks get skinnier too.
