Reading the dipstick - 1.9 150

[AlexGSi2000]

Just wondering if you guys have any tips for reading the dipstick on the 1.9 150?

I pretty much get random readings from day to day.

I checked yesterday, it was sat right in the middle - checked today and it was on max.

That was after leaving the car for two hours.

Also, there seems to be oil all over the dipstick towards the bottom, which makes matters worse! lol

[chewy71]

mine ALWAYS sits right up the flexible section by over an inch... it's never been on or between the flat dip section since the 4 services I have given it... useless

[rich r]

I don't know about the diesels, but on the petrol Vectra Cs, there's a label on the slam panel that tells you the procedure for reading the dipstick. Run engine up to normal operating temperature (about 80C), then switch off. Wait 5 minutes and then read the oil level.

The dipstick is calibrated for the engine in that state - hot, but not running.

[the-wizard]

Let it stand, remove dipstick & clean, replace fully wait a minuite or so then check.

[Graham]

Run engine to normal operating temp. Turn off, and wait 5 min. Wipe dipstick clean and then reinsert for correct reading.
Top up if needed.

[Geo77]

[rich r]

Same as the petrols then

Most cars you check with a cold engine, but GM seem to have moved to check with a hot engine for some reason. Probably due to the thinner oils in use these days or something...

[AlexGSi2000]

Thanks for the advice!

[MickAP]

My Mazda's engines dipstick seems as unreliable as the one in my CDTi. Can never seem to read it with a defined level, hot or cold.

I thought that it's checking the sump level, so left overnight should read correct. It may do but it's bad design means as it's withdrawn you can't tell whether it's correct or not. Could be me but apart from my Mazda and now the Vx I've never had as much trouble deciphering whether it's needs oil or not.

Mick

[MickAP]

Run engine to normal operating temp. Turn off, and wait 5 min. Wipe dipstick clean and then reinsert for correct reading.
Top up if needed.

As per my post above I stand corrected. As you say Graham, I've just tried this method and it's spot on. Never really have had a truer reading on the dipstick before.


Mick