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How do you check Mercedes oil level?
Open your car’s hood and locate the dipstick. Pull the dipstick out of the engine bay. Wipe all the oil off so it’s clean. Put the dipstick all the way back as though you were going to leave it, then pull it out again and examine both sides to see what the oil level is.
Why does my car show no oil?
When a car mysteriously loses oil, there are usually two possible causes: either you’ve sprung a leak, or your engine is burning it away. Though you may not see any visible signs of leakage, less noticeable parts like a worn seal or leaky rings may be the culprit.
How do I know if my Mercedes needs oil?
Check Engine Oil Indication on Dashboard
Their sensors are pretty accurate and whatever they indicate should not be ignored. So if your Mercedes-Benz car’s dashboard indicates to check engine oil then it most probably means you need to change the oil immediately.
Why am I not seeing oil on my dipstick?
There are markings that indicate the level the oil should reach. Sometimes there are holes instead of marks. If the oil doesn’t reach inside the markings or holes on the dipstick, you need to add at least one quart of oil. If the dipstick is not showing an oil level, you need to add oil immediately.
Should car be running when adding oil?
To add oil, turn your vehicle off and wait for the engine to cool. Remove the oil filler cap, and slowly pour in a bit at a time. Overfilling can cause problems for your engine, so start by adding small amounts at a time and checking the oil level frequently while filling.
Engine oil level not when engine on light
But before you top up your oil and call it a day, consider what the consequences are and whether you wouldn’t be better off taking your car to the workshop and seeing what service it actually needs! Learn the difference between a top up and an oil change, how to know which one you need and how often this service is recommended for your car, truck or SUV.
What is the difference between topping up and changing the engine oil?
It seems to be a common misconception that adding engine oil is the same as changing the oil. In reality, there are fundamental differences between simply topping up and changing the oil on your vehicle.
The practice of topping up your oil is essentially exactly as it sounds – you add fresh oil on top of the existing oil. The problem with mixing new and old oil, however, is that the new oil can become contaminated in the process, or impurities can build up in your engine.
In addition, engine oil can deteriorate over time, but normally your oil level shouldn’t drop much between oil changes. If topping up your oil has become a constant habit, you may be ignoring serious problems such as:
You are not changing your oil according to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
Your vehicle is losing oil.
Your engine can burn excessive oil due to problems such as damaged piston rings or valve guides in the cylinder head.
When changing the oil, on the other hand, the oil is completely drained and both the oil and the oil filter are replaced. When the used oil is disposed of, the new oil can lubricate the parts of your engine to keep your vehicle running at its best.
How do you know if you need a refill or an oil change?
Now that you know that topping up and changing your oil are not interchangeable, you may be wondering when to top up engine oil and when to get a full service. To answer this question, first check the oil.
Make sure your engine is cold, remove the engine oil dipstick (there can be more than 1 dipstick under the hood and it can even be part of the oil filler cap) and wipe it with a clean cloth. Then push the dipstick all the way in, wait a few seconds, and pull the dipstick out to check the oil level, smell, and color. The level tells you how much oil your car has, while the smell and color of the oil can help determine if your oil is contaminated. If the oil smells sweet or like fuel, contact your local service center.
Each oil dipstick has an indicator for the correct oil level. The indicator can be in the form of crosshatching, the letters L and H (low and high), or the words MIN and MAX. If the top of your oil strip falls below the minimum mark, more oil may be needed. Alternatively, if the color of the oil is not between an amber or black shade (e.g., pink, red, or green), visit your local service center for a proper diagnosis.
How to refill oil in your car
Topping up your oil is not usually recommended unless the level is below the minimum mark. However, if the oil level is getting low, topping up may help you reach the nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care for an oil change service.
If you wish to refill your oil, you must use the viscosity and grade of oil recommended in your owner’s manual. To add oil, turn off your vehicle and wait for the engine to cool. Remove the oil filler cap and slowly pour in little by little. Overfilling can cause problems for your engine, so start by adding small amounts at a time and checking the oil level frequently as you fill.
After waiting about a minute for the oil to settle to the bottom, check the dipstick again. If the oil level is still below the minimum mark, add more oil and keep checking until the level is between the minimum and maximum marks. Screw the filler cap back on securely and you’re done.
Can I top up oil when the engine is hot?
It is best not to add oil to a hot or running engine. Not only is the oil level slightly higher because it’s hot, accidentally spilling oil on a hot engine can cause smoking or even a fire. If you plan to add oil, turn off your car and wait a few minutes (to allow the engine to cool) before doing anything else.
Again, topping up the oil is not a substitute for a full oil change. Not changing your oil can be quite a risky business, so it’s always better to invest in regular, professional maintenance services.
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for my vehicle?
Keeping up with routine maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure the health of your vehicle and extend its overall lifecycle. While your predetermined maintenance schedule will depend on your car’s make, model and mileage, Firestone Complete Auto Care experts can advise on what maintenance to perform and when to perform it.
Take a moment to complete the required View My Services fields and begin giving your car the care and routine maintenance it deserves.
Take control of your oil with Firestone Complete Auto Care
If you find yourself having to top up your oil a little too frequently, it’s time to visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care! Our technicians can inspect your vehicle and provide expert recommendations on everything from which services to choose to the type of oil that will help your car perform at its best. Our experienced technicians will ensure your vehicle runs thousands of miles longer and memories come!
Should I check my oil when the engine is hot or cold?
If checking the oil yourself, make sure the car is parked on level ground and, with most cars, the engine is cold, so you don’t burn yourself on a hot engine part.
Engine oil level not when engine on light
To add oil, remove the oil filler cap, which is usually located on top of the engine. Since overfilling with oil is bad for the engine, you should add oil gradually. Start by adding about half a liter. Using a funnel will help prevent spills. Wait about a minute and check the dipstick again. If the level is still below or near the minimum mark, add the rest of the liter. Unless your engine is losing or burning oil (or if you haven’t checked it in a while), you will rarely need to add more than a quart. However, if a second liter is needed, add that slowly as well, checking as you go.
Screw the oil filler cap back on and you’re done.
How low is oil when light comes on?
Low Oil Pressure Light Flickers
You may observe that the low oil pressure warning light comes on and off while you’re driving. This is because the light will come on when the oil pressure drops below 5 – 10 PSI at idle, depending on the car. Unless the pressure drops suddenly, you may also notice a knocking sound.
Engine oil level not when engine on light
The low oil pressure indicator light on your dash, like the rest of your on-board diagnostics system, is a direct communication from your car’s computer about what’s going on with your vehicle. However, if this light comes on, similar to a flashing check engine light, you must stop driving, shut off the engine, and check the oil level after it has cooled. Common causes that trigger the low oil pressure warning light to come on are:
Low or Depleted Oil – Maintaining a vehicle is key to keeping it on the road. An oil change should always be on your to-do list every 3-6 months or between 3,000 and 5,000 miles. This ensures that clean, fresh oil is always circulating through your engine.
Maintaining a vehicle is key to keeping it on the road. An oil change should always be on your to-do list every 3-6 months or between 3,000 and 5,000 miles. This ensures that clean, fresh oil is always circulating through your engine. Engine Wear – Oil moves through the engine through the crankshaft bearing and camshaft bearings. If the area has widened due to worn parts, the oil will flow too easily and reduce the oil pressure. The oil pump must push oil through tight areas under bearings and passages. These are the areas that build pressure in the system because they control the flow rate. The faster the motor moves, the higher the flow rate and pressure.
Oil moves through the engine through the crankshaft bearing and camshaft bearings. If the area has widened due to worn parts, the oil will flow too easily and reduce the oil pressure. The oil pump must push oil through tight areas under bearings and passages. These are the areas that build pressure in the system because they control the flow rate. The faster the motor moves, the higher the flow rate and pressure. Faulty Oil Pressure Gauge – Your engine may have a lot of oil in the sump and it may be perfectly fine, but the problem is with the oil pressure gauge. Electrical and wiring problems can cause the meter to malfunction and give false readings. A technician must perform a mechanical oil pressure test to determine if there is a lack of pressure or not.
– Your engine may have a lot of oil in the sump and it may be perfectly fine, but the problem is in the oil pressure gauge. Electrical and wiring problems can cause the meter to malfunction and give false readings. A technician must perform a mechanical oil pressure test to determine if there is a lack of pressure or not. Clogged or Dirty Air Filter – Oil filters play a key role in maintaining oil pressure. When the filter becomes clogged, it increases pressure and decreases flow. A pressure relief valve on the oil filter prevents the pressure from getting too high. If it is damaged, it will not be able to do its job, allowing engine oil to flow more easily and reducing pressure.
– Oil filters play a key role in maintaining oil pressure. When the filter becomes clogged, it increases pressure and decreases flow. A pressure relief valve on the oil filter prevents the pressure from getting too high. If it is damaged, it will not be able to do its job, allowing engine oil to flow more easily and reducing pressure. Oil Viscosity – Higher viscosity oil is thicker and will not flow as quickly as thinner oil. Depending on the time of year, this affects the oil pressure. High-viscosity oil prevents a rapid build-up of oil pressure.
– Higher viscosity oil is thicker and does not flow as quickly as thinner oil. Depending on the time of year, this affects the oil pressure. High-viscosity oil prevents a rapid build-up of oil pressure. Engine Overheating – An overheated engine isn’t just a headache for the driver. It’s harsh on the engine as it dilutes the oil and prevents pressure build-up. It has an effect similar to using a lower viscosity oil than the vehicle requires.
– An overheated engine not only causes headaches for the driver. It’s harsh on the engine as it dilutes the oil and prevents pressure build-up. It has an effect similar to using a lower viscosity oil than the vehicle requires. Failed Oil Pump – Although not a common occurrence, a failed oil pump can create wider passages between the rotors, resulting in a drop in flow rate.
– Although not as common, a failed oil pump can create wider passages between the rotors, resulting in a drop in flow rate. Worn Internal Components – Every component in the engine contributes to the combustion process. When these components fail, the oil can inadvertently enter the combustion chamber and be burned, causing the engine oil level and pressure to drop. This is easy to spot as it often produces a blue smoke that exits through the tailpipe.
Low oil pressure light flickers
You can observe the low oil pressure warning light go on and off while driving. This is because the light comes on when the oil pressure falls below 5-10 PSI at idle depending on the vehicle. If the pressure does not drop suddenly, you may also hear a knocking sound. The cause of the light turning on or off can also depend on whether your vehicle is moving or idling.
If the oil warning light flickers when the vehicle is stationary or idling, there may be a problem with the oil sensor or the pressure is too low. The motor should be at least 5 PSI when not moving. If the PSI is less than 5, this will trigger the oil light and let it cycle on and off. If the light flickers while driving, the oil level may be too low. Check the oil level and add engine oil to the vehicle if necessary and continue to watch the light. If the oil level was indeed low, the light should go out. If not, the engine mounts may be worn out. This is an unfortunate situation as it can cause the engine oil to release oil from where it once contained. A technician must check and repair it immediately.
The best way to prevent your oil pressure light from coming on is to ensure your vehicle receives routine maintenance, including regularly scheduled oil changes. Engine knock, low oil pressure gauge at idle, and declining engine performance are all warnings that your engine is having trouble sending oil through the engine. Ignoring oil pressure problems can lead to serious problems in the engine block. Don’t wait for an inspection or you could find yourself with a broken engine. Take it to a certified professional to get your engine running smoothly right away.
How long can you go without an oil change Mercedes?
With conventional motor oil, experts suggest changing it every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Ere on the lower side if you put on most of your miles in the city or in extreme hot or cold temperatures. For Mercedes-Benz drivers, though, that number changes to about 10,000 miles.
Engine oil level not when engine on light
Oil changes are one of the most common car maintenance routines. Not changing the oil can have some dire consequences, especially if you drive a high-performance machine like a Mercedes-Benz. So when should you change the oil in your Mercedes-Benz? Read on to find out!
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How often should I change my oil?
It used to be recommended that you change the oil in your vehicle every 3,000 miles. However, with advancements in our engines and more responsible driving habits, you can typically have much longer between oil changes. With conventional engine oil, experts recommend changing it every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Ere on the lower side if you do most of your mileage around town or in extreme hot or cold temperatures. For Mercedes-Benz drivers, however, that number changes to around 10,000 miles. Why is that? Mercedes-Benz vehicles all use synthetic engine oil, which lasts longer than conventional and is of higher quality. Because of this, you don’t have to schedule oil changes nearly as frequently.
It is important to maintain your vehicle well to avoid unnecessary damage from neglect. This is an even bigger deal if you drive a luxury vehicle like a Mercedes-Benz, as it’s likely to cost more to maintain. If you would like to arrange an oil change or other maintenance service on your Mercedes-Benz, contact the team here at Mercedes-Benz of Gilbert!
Can I put regular oil in my Mercedes?
While conventional oil can be used in many Mercedes-Benz models, it is highly recommended that you use synthetic oil. Doing this will increase your engine’s function and have your car performing at a much higher level.
Engine oil level not when engine on light
We have mentioned in the past how important it is to perform frequent oil changes on your vehicle. However, what we haven’t mentioned is what kind of oil you should use. Should you use synthetic oil or conventional oil in your Mercedes-Benz? Does it make a difference or are you just paying more for a tiny difference in quality? We answer that below!
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What is the difference between synthetic and conventional motor oil?
To understand which oil is better and why, you must first understand the difference between these two. Conventional motor oil is derived from crude oil while synthetic oil is derived from conventional oil. Because it is derived from regular motor oil and not crude oil, synthetic oil is a higher quality product. It will improve the engine by adding a cleaner, more refined oil that will cool and lubricate the engine better. Because of this, you only need to change the oil every 10,000 miles with synthetic oil as opposed to 5,000-7,500 with conventional.
Which one should I use for my Mercedes-Benz?
While conventional oil can be used in many Mercedes-Benz models, the use of synthetic oil is highly recommended. This will improve the functioning of your engine and your car will work at a much higher level. The complex nature of Mercedes-Benz engines requires a little more maintenance than traditional engines, but in return you get far superior performance, which is what draws many people to Mercedes-Benz in the first place.
While you may have to spend a little more money for synthetic oil, the end result is definitely worth it. Studies have even shown that you can save money in the long run with synthetic motor oil anyway. Be sure to ask for synthetic motor oil the next time you change the oil for your Mercedes-Benz. Contact us for more tips and tricks!
How long does it take for oil to show up on dipstick?
If you want to check the oil and have been driving the vehicle, wait five or ten minutes to let it settle into the oil pan before checking it. In very cold weather, it may be appropriate to drive the car around a bit first to get the oil loosened up and less viscous before checking it.
Engine oil level not when engine on light
Article overview
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To check the oil level in your car, first make sure you are parked on a level surface and the engine is off and cool. Then open the hood and locate the oil dipstick, which is a long rod with a ring on the end, typically found near the front of the engine block. The dipstick is almost always yellow and often says “motor oil”. Slide your finger into the ring at the end of the dipstick and slowly pull it out. Use a rag or paper towel to wipe off any oil on the end of the dipstick. Then slide the rod back into the hole you pulled it out of. Slide the bar all the way down and slowly remove it again. Now examine the dots at the end of the rod to see how high the oil reached. If the oil is above the lower point, your car’s oil level is fine. If the oil is at or below the low point, your car will need an additional 1 quart (950 ml) of engine oil. To learn more from our mechanic co-author e.g. B. how to add more oil to your car if needed, read on!
How do I check the oil on my dashboard?
Once the engine is cool, look for the dipstick, which is likely yellow. When you pull the dipstick for the first time, wipe it off to get a clean fresh reading. Reinsert the dipstick, then remove it again. You will be able to get an accurate reading of the level of oil in your engine.
Engine oil level not when engine on light
If the low oil pressure light comes on, it is best to turn off your vehicle and not use it until the problem is resolved. Although we understand that this is very inconvenient, it is better than risking the dangerous damage that driving the vehicle can cause to your engine. When the oil pressure light comes on, it’s not always a sign of disaster. Often this light comes on when the sensor needs to be replaced, which is an easy and inexpensive task.
3. Low oil level
When the amount of oil in the engine decreases, the engine oil pressure is low, which is not good for your engine’s health. It is important to check the engine oil regularly. Checking your vehicle’s oil level is very simple. Park on level ground first, then allow the engine to cool before opening the hood. When the engine is cool, look for the dipstick, which will likely be yellow. When you first pull out the dipstick, wipe it off to get a clean, fresh reading. Reinsert the dipstick and then pull it out again. You can accurately read the oil level in your engine. If it’s too low, it’s time to fill it up with the recommended grade of oil for your engine. You can find out which type of oil is best suited for your vehicle in your operating instructions.
W211. Engine oil Level.
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My Car Is Losing Oil But Not Leaking
You’re driving down the street and suddenly your oil lamp comes on – again! There’s no puddle under your car and you know it’s not time for another oil change. If you don’t see any visible signs of a leak, the problem may be something else entirely. Read on to learn why your car is losing oil but not leaking and what you can do to fix the problem.
Why is my car losing oil?
When a car is mysteriously losing oil, there are usually two possible causes: either you have a leak, or your engine is burning it up. Although you may not see any visible signs of a leak, less obvious parts such as a worn gasket or leaking rings can be the cause.
Luckily, Firestone Complete Auto Care offers a free 19-point inspection during a major oil change to find any visible leaks. But if you add a quart or more of oil to your engine between changes and you can’t find a leak, there’s a chance your vehicle is burning oil.
Little oil but no leak? You’re probably burning oil
Oil combustion occurs when failed engine parts allow oil to seep into the combustion chamber. Blue colored smoke coming out of your exhaust is a possible indicator of this problem, but it may not always be obvious when your engine is only burning small amounts. While it is normal for some cars to burn more oil than others, if you are experiencing consistently low levels it is best to have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
Too much oil loss can cause serious engine damage and expensive repairs, especially in older cars with 100,000 miles or more on the odometer. However, vehicles with less than 50,000 miles should not normally use more than a quart of extra oil between changes.
Possible causes of burning oil
If oil seeps into the combustion chamber, it is usually due to one or more worn parts. On newer engines that use low viscosity oil, such as 5W-20, even a small amount of wear can result in oil getting into this chamber. Here are some of the most common causes of excessive oil consumption:
Worn PCV valve
The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system is a key engine component that eliminates harmful gases produced during engine combustion. It does this by directing excess gases back into the combustion chamber, where they are burned a second time before exiting the exhaust.
However, if the PCV system is clogged, it can cause significant oil backflush. Instead of removing combustion gases, oil is drawn into the engine through the air intake. In most cases, solving this problem simply requires replacing the PCV valve.
Worn piston rings or cylinder walls
Repairs can be expensive here. Each set of piston rings forms a seal against the cylinder walls to maintain engine compression and prevent combustion gases from escaping. However, if your piston rings have worn out or the cylinder wall has started to deteriorate, the seal may no longer be working properly. A blown gasket can allow oil to get into the combustion chamber, burn up and leave you with less oil than when you started.
Worn valve seal
Defective valve stem seals are another cause of low oil levels. While valve stem seals are designed to regulate oil consumption and valve lubrication, a failed seal does the exact opposite. A worn or damaged valve seal can leak oil into the engine cylinders and eventually into the combustion chamber.
Don’t let burning oil burn a hole in your pocket
Do you suspect a hidden oil leak or other oil problems? We can help. With a full-service oil change, you get a 19-point inspection and an oil filter change. We’ll even top up your windshield washer fluid, perform advanced oil leak troubleshooting using our dye detection services, and check the levels of other important fluids in your car.
Visit your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care or make an online appointment today for all your oil care needs.
Dipstick Oil Analysis: How to Check Oil
Oil analysis with a dipstick may sound a bit stupid, but it works. Not to mention that it’s also cheap and fast. There’s just one problem – figuring out what the oil on the dipstick really means. Do not worry. Hold on tight for five easy lessons on reading your dipstick.
Lesson #1 – Get the dipstick
With the engine hot, park on level ground and shut off the engine. Wait a few minutes for the oil to return to the oil pan.
Open the hood and locate the dipstick on the engine – a metal loop or handle protruding from the end of a metal rod. If you can’t find it, your owner’s manual should help.
With a rag or thick paper towel in one hand, pull the metal loop or handle and use the other to pull out the dipstick. Wipe the oil-wet straight end of the dipstick and reinsert it into the stem from which you removed it.
Wait a few seconds and pull out the dipstick again.
Lesson #2 – Recognizing a low oil level
How much oil should be on the dipstick? Examine the end of the dipstick and note where the oil ends. There are marks that indicate the level that the oil should reach. Sometimes there are holes instead of marks.
If the oil does not reach the marks or holes on the dipstick, you will need to add at least one liter of oil. If the dipstick shows no oil level, you must add oil immediately. The amount of supplemental oil you would expect to add depends on the age of your car, engine type, total mileage and driving conditions. The oil dipstick is your gauge for unusually high oil consumption. Real concern starts at about a liter per 1,000 miles (0.95 liters per 1,600 kilometers). It’s time to schedule an overhaul when the problem increases to a liter every 500 miles (800 kilometers).
Is it okay to be a quart low? The sidebar at the end of this article can answer that question.
Lesson #3 – What if the oil level is too high?
In certain cases, the oil level may have increased since the last check or there is too much oil on the dipstick. This could be due to condensation (from combustion), condensed fuel, or a coolant leak – all causes for concern.
Engine oil diluted with fuel (through blow-by or leakage) can significantly reduce oil viscosity and additive concentration. The smell of diesel fuel can often already be detected on the oil dipstick.
Free and emulsified water is harmful to the oil and engine. For short-haul drivers, water condensation can be more acute if your engine has the flexible fuel vehicle (FFV) option and you are burning an alcohol-gasoline fuel mixture. It’s important to remember that combustion creates water in your engine – more water than the fuel consumed. Most of the water comes out of the exhaust, but when the engine is cold, much of it can condense in the crankcase.
An easy way to spot water in used engine oil is to put a drop of oil from the dipstick onto a hot exhaust manifold. If it crackles (sounds like fried bacon), that’s an indication of water pollution. Note that there is some risk of the oil drop catching fire. Read more about using the crackle test.
Brand new cars imported from Japan can have high oil levels because the engine must be started for brief periods (up to 50) when the vehicle is transported from the assembly plant across the ocean and eventually to the dealership. In this case, an oil and filter change may be in order.
Coolant leaks are a serious problem associated with high oil levels. See Lesson #5.
Whatever the cause of the high oil level, the condition must be addressed quickly.
Note: Accidentally overfilling your engine with oil can also cause problems. As the crankshaft rotates, the oil is agitated, causing aeration and eventually persistent foam can form. This can lead to overheated engine oil, oxidation and loss of oil pressure. Spongy, aerated oil is difficult to pump. It starves the engine and critical lubricated surfaces.
Lesson #4 – Signs of Aged Oil
Oil is not like fine wine, which only gets better with time. Instead, it ages at a rate affected by driving conditions, fuel quality, engine age, engine oil quality, and climate. If it is not changed in time, your oil will wither and no longer protect your engine.
So let’s take a close look at the oil on the dipstick. The oil should look smooth and shiny and somewhat transparent. If you have muddy deposits or granular dirt particles, it’s time for an oil change. The same is true if the oil looks too thick, is too dark (opaque), and/or has a putrid smell of rotten cheese.
If you still don’t know if you need an oil change, consider performing a blotter spot test.
Oxidized and contaminated oil loses interfacial tension. A simple test for interfacial tension is to place a drop of used oil from the dipstick on the surface of the water. If the drop of oil is spreading on the water surface (rather than beading like new oil), it may be time for an oil change.
Lesson #5 – Signs of coolant leaks
Brown blisters or dried, crusty brown residue above the oil level line on the dipstick could be an indication that coolant (water and antifreeze) has entered your engine. The oil on the dipstick might even look like chocolate milk. Never try engine oil as a test for antifreeze.
Another clear indication of a coolant leak is white exhaust smoke that has a sweet odor. In this case, the oil level on the dipstick may actually rise, indicating that a significant amount of coolant has entered the crankcase.
To confirm a coolant leak, turn off the engine, let it sit for an hour or two, unscrew the drain plug, and collect the liquid in a clear glass or plastic bottle. Since both water and antifreeze are heavier than oil, they collect at the bottom of the oil pan. Gather a few ounces of liquid and immediately re-tighten the drain. Check the fluid for glycol and water. Glycol and water often look like a thick mayonnaise-like paste, depending on how long the coolant has been in the crankcase. You may also notice a sweet smell of antifreeze.
If you have detected coolant in your engine oil, your engine should be taken in for service immediately.
So there you have it – dipstick oil analysis in five easy lessons. Checking your oil level may never be the same.
Have you learned tricks not mentioned here for analyzing used motor oil with your dipstick? If so, please share these ideas, but beware, they might end up in print one day!
Is it okay to be a quart low?
Auto manufacturers and owner’s manuals often state that it is okay to wait until the oil level drops below the refill mark to add oil. However, keep in mind that the crankcase of most passenger cars today only contains about four liters of oil. That means you’re running the engine with 25 percent less oil (one liter), which might not be wise.
Motor oil has many important functions beyond controlling friction and wear. Oil not only lubricates the internal parts of the engine, but also helps cool the bearings and other friction surfaces. The oil in the engine therefore serves as a heat sink to collect unwanted heat for transfer out of the engine by conduction or convection.
Under typical driving conditions, a low fuel level may not make much difference to bearing temperature or overall engine lubrication. But even under worst-case conditions, such as hot weather, towing or a compromised cooling system, the engine must be protected.
When you have 25 percent less oil, you also have 25 percent less critical additives — the additives that extend the life of the oil and the engine. Additionally, with a 25 percent oil starvation, there is less oil to disperse harmful contaminants, acids, soot, fuel, sludge and water entering the crankcase.
If you do the math, one liter of under-oil means a 33 percent increase in pollutant levels. In addition, the residual oil spends less time in the oil pan and more time in the hot friction zones of the engines. The added heat, shear and pressure will break down the oil and its additives more quickly.
When all of this is factored in, especially the prospect of an extended oil change, it’s a good idea for many car owners to top up oil when the dipstick shows low.
Don’t wait until it’s down a full liter. If it takes a pint, add a pint to bring it back to the full mark. However, be careful not to overfill the engine. In addition to the problems caused by overfilling the crankcase, too much oil can cause leaks as the surging oil is more easily forced past gaskets and gaskets.
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Engine oil level not when engine on light
Phil,
Do you have the steering wheel buttons on your Sprinter?
Is the message you get a light…a symbol…or a message that says “Check engine oil”?
If you have the buttons and are not used to them, it is easy to accidentally touch them
the buttons enough to get the message “Check engine oil” on the small screen in your
Dashboard/Speedometer Cluster.
I did this on a brand new Sprinter (the first I’ve had with the steering wheel buttons) at 25 miles
it and 45 minutes from driving it new from the dealer lot.
There was a lot of oil in it, I just touched the buttons.
Consult your owner’s manual…it has a full description of the oil level lights/messages for both Sprinters
with buttons and those without buttons.
Chances are that if the dipstick reads full (BUT NOT ABOVE FULL AND ABOVE THE TOP LINE ON THE dipstick)
Nothing to worry about, but it could be a sensor and something you’d like to have
checked at an authorized Mercedes Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealer where they have full diagnostic capabilities.
Hope that helps,
Roger
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