Should the Engine Be Cold or Hot When Adding Oil?
2 Answers
Both are acceptable. The difference in oil level readings between a cold and hot engine is not significant, usually only a one to two millimeter variation under normal circumstances. The difference between adding oil to a cold or hot engine: When the engine is cold, the oil dipstick shows the total oil quantity, whereas when the engine is hot, it displays the remaining oil level after meeting the engine's needs. Precautions for adding oil: For average displacement household vehicles, the oil refill typically does not exceed four liters. This leaves ample residual oil space in the engine, sufficient for driving under any road conditions. If driving primarily on regular city roads, filling the oil to half of the dipstick's marked range is adequate. More oil is not necessarily better—excessive oil can lead to increased fuel consumption, excessive crankcase pressure, potential oil leaks, and higher oil consumption. Therefore, avoid overfilling the engine with oil.
I've always believed that adding engine oil should wait until the engine cools down, as the oil temperature is high when the engine is hot, which can lead to inaccurate oil level readings and potential burns or spills. Back when I didn't know better, I casually added oil right after driving, spilling it everywhere and nearly causing a fire. Since then, I always wait at least half an hour after parking, sometimes even overnight, before topping up. When the engine is cold, the oil level stabilizes, making it easier to read the dipstick. I use a funnel to pour the oil slowly, ensuring I don't overfill. Remember to check the oil level before and after each service—top it up if it's low, don't wait for the warning light. Developing this habit protects the engine, reduces wear, and saves money and hassle in the long run. Engine oil is the lifeblood of the engine—it's not something to take lightly. Now, I strictly add oil only when the engine is cold and have taught my family this safe practice.
