Maximizing Engine Performance Check Oil Hot or Cold?

Checking it at operating temperature is the correct way to do it. Do what SD Rebel said with regard to going slowly and reading the lower side. You will have ... I have always been taught to check the oil level when the engine is at its normal running temp. Always change the oil warm as well. The best time to check the oil in the engine is when the engine is cold or sitting there overnight. That is what I do. I still have my doubts though. Those who live in a cold environment will probably see a 1/2 qt difference. The main reason for checking the oil when warm is to avoid over- ... 2016 Accord I4 oil dip stick can have two different readings when you check oil as hot and cold. The difference could be as much as 3mm apart on the dip stick. You can check it either way. When its cold on level ground in the AM, it will read full, but after running a while and checking it at the fuel ... Always check engine oil with the engine off. Service info usually says to check while the oil is warm, fluid expands when it gets hotter so the fluid level ... You've Been Checking Your Oil The Wrong Way! #carmaintenance. Measure it stone cold and you have the oil at its thickest (so it sticks to the dipstick better without running and giving false readings), and ... It seems that the oil level should be checked when engine is cold. All the oil is at the bottom so I would get a reading of the true oil level.