is this the correct way to check the oil level on my 2001 4.4?

[bongo]

hi, could someone just clarify the correct way to check the engine oil on my 2001 4.4 x5.
i have read that the car should be ran upto temperature,park it on a level surface ,then let it idle for 15 seconds and turn it off.
then, after 1 minute check the dipstick.

is this correct?

thanks

[Naz24]

I've never really followed an exact procedure like that. The most important aspect of what you've said is put car on level surface. Also, be sure to take the dipstick out, clean it, and then stick back in and out for an accurate reading

[JCL]

Level surface is important. Engine at operating temperature is important.

Don't need to idle it. Shut it down. You say 1 minute to wait, owner's manual says 5 minutes; I would give it more than one. I usually tire of waiting by 3 minutes or so unless I have other things to check, and I go ahead and check it. Just realize that the oil is draining back down, and the level may continue to rise a bit.

[pezho405]

My dip stick is wierd, like half of it is in oul and the other half isnt, like vertically....seems to always lie

[Turbo_Bimmer]

Originally Posted by pezho405

My dip stick is wierd, like half of it is in oul and the other half isnt, like vertically....seems to always lie

Same for me. When the oil is hot, it will have oil all around the stick equally, but a lower level, and if the engine is cold, half of the stick shows 1/2, and the other side 'full' even if you measure many times, weird.