Engine Oil Low

[bigmick777]

This is probably a really daft question but dont shoot me down.

Over the last few hundred mile the engine oil level low light has come on (and gone off). I thus picked myself up some 5w30 full sythn (after checking with the lexus garage who last serviced to confirm what they put in).

Now the manual says check when the engine is warm? I did this and one half of the dipstick showed oil, the other side seemed to be on the low side. I then had to take a call so checked it about 15 mins later and it seemed much higher (almost past the max point!).

When do you get the most accurate reading?

[Gunther]

I only ever check engine oil when the engine is cold and on level ground. If it's too warm some of the oil may still be lined up on the engines insides and will not give you accurate readings.

Best thing if it is warm is to let is stand for at least 30 minutes prior to checking. If you don't, you might overfill by by 250ml

[bigmick777]

I only ever check engine oil when the engine is cold and on level ground. If it's too warm some of the oil may still be lined up on the engines insides and will not give you accurate readings.

Best thing if it is warm is to let is stand for at least 30 minutes prior to checking. If you don't, you might overfill by by 250ml

Thanks for the prompt response.

At the risk of me sounding stoopid - when I check (from cold), pull the dipstick out, one side of the dipstick (the flat side facing up has oil showing past the max, turn the dipstick over and the underside is on Min!).

The car is level. I am very cautious about topping up and over filling, and just as cautious of running out!!!