How much oil is there from the upper limit to the lower limit on a car's dipstick?
3 Answers
The oil level from the upper limit to the lower limit on a car's dipstick is generally 1.5L of engine oil. The function of the dipstick is not only to check the level of engine lubricating oil. Experienced drivers or repair personnel can detect many engine working conditions by inspecting the dipstick. Proper use of the dipstick plays a crucial role in extending the engine's service life. Usage method: Locate the position of the oil dipstick, which is usually near the engine with a pull ring. Pull out the dipstick when the vehicle is cool. After the first removal, wipe it clean with a clean tissue, then reinsert it. Upon the second removal, check the oil level on the dipstick. If the oil level is between the upper and lower limits, it indicates the oil quantity is normal. Effects of insufficient oil: Too little engine oil will increase engine wear. If the engine lacks oil for a long time, it will suffer severe erosion and eventually burn out, leading to abnormal engine operation. When the oil in the engine oil pan is insufficient, the contact areas such as bearings and journals will have poor lubrication due to the lack of oil, accelerating wear and even causing failures like bearing seizure or journal burning.
Last time when helping my neighbor check his old Jetta, I specifically measured it. The oil level between the upper and lower marks on the dipstick is roughly 0.8 to 1.2 liters, equivalent to a large bottle of cola. However, there can be significant differences between vehicles. Small-displacement cars with shallow oil pans might only hold around 0.5 liters, while my off-road vehicle requires 1.5 liters. Remember, the most stable oil level is in the middle of the hash marks when the engine is cold. If it drops below the lower mark, top it up with half a liter immediately. If the level drops again after three days, there's an 80% chance it's either burning oil or leaking.
Experience as a frequent visitor to auto repair shops: The interval between the lower and upper limits for regular family cars is usually within 1 liter. For example, when my Corolla was being serviced, the mechanic said adding 0.8 liters from the lower limit to the upper limit was just right. However, German cars like the Passat require a bit more. For emergencies, always keep a 1-liter bottle of engine oil in the trunk. If the oil level is at the bottom, top it up to the middle line, but never exceed the upper limit! Excess oil can damage the catalytic converter, and the repair costs are much higher than the price of the oil itself.
