How to Deal with Overfilled Engine Oil?
2 Answers
The method to deal with overfilled engine oil is: drain or extract the excess oil. The effects of overfilling engine oil are: 1. May cause the crankcase to explode; 2. Blue smoke from the engine exhaust pipe; 3. Piston ring sticking, fuel injector clogging; 4. Reduced engine power output; 5. Oil leakage. The functions of engine oil are: assisting in engine lubrication and friction reduction, cooling and temperature reduction, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion prevention, and shock absorption. The method for changing engine oil is: 1. Run the engine to reach operating temperature; 2. Engage the handbrake and lift the vehicle; 3. Unscrew the oil filter and drain the oil; 4. Apply new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter; 5. Pour new oil into the oil pan; 6. Check for leaks at the lower part of the engine; 7. Lower the vehicle, check the oil dipstick, and start the engine; 8. Turn off the engine and recheck the oil level.
That time I changed the oil myself and overfilled it, the oil level exceeded the upper limit, causing unstable idling and slight smoke while driving. After checking the information, I realized that excessive oil pressure could damage seals, leading to leaks, and even affect the catalytic converter. I found an empty beverage bottle and a soft tube to siphon out the excess oil from the filler port back to the normal range—fortunately, the issue wasn’t severe. I recommend avoiding risky DIY attempts like mine; it’s better to visit a professional repair shop where they can use an oil extractor to precisely remove the excess. Always measure the oil according to the manual’s specifications, use a funnel to avoid over-pouring, and wait a few minutes after an oil change before checking the dipstick to confirm levels. Prevention is better than repair—this detail can’t be overlooked, as long-term engine damage comes at a higher cost, especially in terms of performance and fuel efficiency. Developing good habits during regular maintenance ensures your car runs smoother.
