How much engine oil can be added at one time?
2 Answers
How much engine oil can be added at one time depends on the type of engine, with the addition amount ranging from 3.5 to 8 liters. You can check the oil dipstick scale after adding the oil. Here are the details: Oil dipstick scale: There are two marks on the oil dipstick, one is the maximum mark, and the other is the minimum mark. The normal oil level should not be higher than the maximum mark or lower than the minimum mark. The oil level between these two marks is considered normal. Method for checking the oil level: After adding the oil, start the vehicle and then check the oil level 3 minutes after turning off the engine. This is because the oil filter needs to be replaced along with the oil, and the newly replaced oil filter does not contain any oil. After starting the vehicle, the oil will flow into the oil filter. Waiting for 3 minutes after turning off the engine allows the oil to flow back into the oil pan, ensuring a more accurate reading. Remember not to check the oil level on a slope, as the vehicle's tilt will cause the oil in the oil pan to tilt as well, resulting in an inaccurate oil level reading.
Every time before adding engine oil to my car, I first check the dipstick: pull it out, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and then pull it out again to check the oil level. Most cars have MIN and MAX marks on the dipstick when the engine is cool. I only add oil if the level is near MIN, usually half a liter to one liter at a time (about the amount of a small bottle of mineral water). After adding, I wait 5 minutes for the oil to flow into the oil pan, then repeat the dipstick check to avoid overfilling. Overfilling can cause excessive oil pressure, foaming, engine overheating, and even damage to seals. My old car buddy once poured in a whole bottle, resulting in an overfilled oil level, white smoke while driving, and a repair bill of over a thousand dollars. I recommend checking the oil level monthly, especially before long trips, to save fuel and protect the engine. Remember to check the car manual for the recommended oil type and total capacity—don’t add blindly. Use a small funnel for slow and safe pouring, ensuring efficiency.
