While the gauge can definitely not be accurate, you should rely on the dipstick and check it on an even surface while the car is running and warmed up (after a drive). Keep the oil in the middle of the twisty part on the dipstick. On a working gauge the middle of the dipstick should read about half way on the gauge. There is a ton of info on oil level threads on here. Even though it is a pain once in a while, most people on here will tell you the dipstick is the only accurate way to check oil level.

 

 

Monchie
Are talking about a Porsche or something?
Do the Series II RX8 have twisty dip sticks?
Middle of the dipstick, on an RX8? Holy crap on a series one that is waaaay too much oil.

The RX8 should not be running when you check the oil level using the dip stick.

Are you having a laugh? Are you having a laugh?
He's having a laugh.

 

Yeah I think hes referring to a different car because it sure as hell doesn't sound like the dipstick I have with my '05.

 

Dipsticks and the use of the owners manual is "ALL" you need........................................

Do not wait until the oil warning light comes on---- by then you are WHY low on oil

 

All i'm trying to say is, just make sure the oil level is in full capacity.

 

In comparison to the Porsche 911 oil measuring system, the type used in the Porsche Boxster is way better, in my opinion.

Simply put, you hop in the drivers seat, turn the ignition to the ON position (don't crank the engine over yet), then wait for the count down to end (all of 5 seconds), then it gives you the oil level, which is 100% equivalent to the range you would see on the dipstick.

It also tells you if you are too low on oil, or too high, by flashing the lower or higher mark.

It runs off a sensor in the middle of the oil pan, IIRC.

It takes less time to let the countdown go for 5 seconds than to pop the trunk, and pull the dipstick and check it that way.

And, that's with either a warm or a cold motor.
So when you first start up for the day, you know if you're in good or bad shape before you even start the engine.

BC.

 

You wont be finding that on any rx8s and the cost to add a mod like that would out weigh the benefits since it doesn't work while running.

 

Who put in the requirement that it needs to work while the engine is running?
I thought the original question was just to check the oil level without resorting to the dipstick...

Knowing what your oil level is before you start the engine, each and every time sounds like it might be useful to people who don't like popping the hood of their car. I'm amazed it isn't on more mass produced vehicles.

BC.

 

http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/Motors.../1771/0/145522

With a little diy it could even work...still no need for it imo

 

Does an improvement in this regard?


Thank You