What is the normal level on a hot engine oil dipstick?
2 Answers
Hot engine oil dipstick reading at the halfway point of the scale is normal. In automobiles, the oil dipstick is a commonly used measuring tool to check the lubricating oil reservoir level. Since the dipstick insertion path has bends, the dipstick must be able to deform during insertion and rebound to its original shape when pulled out. The engine lubrication system generally includes an oil storage system, oil distribution system, and oil indication system. Airworthiness standards for transport category aircraft require that oil quantity indicators must have a dipstick or equivalent device to indicate the oil quantity in each oil tank. The dipstick is a simple-structured liquid level gauge that directly displays the oil level height in the oil tank.
I've been driving for most of my life. After warming up the engine, check the oil dipstick - the normal oil level should be between the high and low marks, preferably slightly towards the upper mark. Remember to wait about five minutes after parking and turning off the engine to let the oil flow back into the oil pan before pulling out the dipstick to check. If it's below the minimum line, the engine might run with insufficient oil and damage components; if it's above the maximum line, it increases resistance and wastes oil. Once I was in a hurry to go out and didn't check the oil, then heard strange engine noises halfway. When I stopped to check, I found the oil level was low. Continuing to drive ended up costing me repair money. Now I've developed the habit of checking once a month, while also observing the oil color - if it's black and dirty, it's time for a change. Maintaining your car properly can extend its lifespan for years, saving both trouble and money.
