As an automotive expert with years of experience in the field, I can provide you with a detailed answer on when to check the oil level in your vehicle.

First and foremost, it is important to ensure that your vehicle is parked on a level surface when checking the oil. This is crucial because the oil level can be affected by the angle of the vehicle, and an inaccurate reading can lead to either overfilling or underfilling the engine with oil.

Regarding the engine temperature, there are two main schools of thought. The traditional method is to check the oil level when the engine is cold. This is because when the engine is cold, the oil has not yet expanded due to heat, and it is easier to get an accurate reading. However, it is also important to note that the oil level can be slightly lower when the engine is cold, as the oil is more viscous and settles in the pan.

On the other hand, some manufacturers recommend checking the oil level after the engine has been warmed up. This is because once the engine is running and has reached its operating temperature, the oil will have expanded slightly, and this can give a more accurate representation of the oil level when the engine is in use. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by your vehicle’s manufacturer, as they will have tailored their recommendations to the specific design and operating conditions of your engine.

When checking the oil, you should follow these steps:

1. Turn off the engine and wait for a few minutes to allow the oil to settle back down into the pan.
2. Pull out the dipstick, which is usually located near the engine, and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel.
3. Reinsert the dipstick fully into the tube and then pull it out again.
4. Check the oil level on the dipstick. There will typically be two marks on the dipstick indicating the minimum and maximum levels. The oil level should be between these two marks.

It is also worth mentioning that some modern vehicles are equipped with electronic oil level sensors that can provide a digital readout of the oil level. These systems are convenient and can give a more precise measurement, but they can also be more expensive to repair if they malfunction.

In conclusion, whether you should check the oil when the engine is hot or cold depends on the specific recommendations of your vehicle's manufacturer. It is always best to consult your owner's manual for the most accurate information. However, in general, checking the oil when the engine is cold can provide a safer and more accurate reading, but if your manufacturer recommends checking it after the engine has warmed up, it is important to follow their guidance.

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Most servo attendants will offer to check your oil when engine is hot.Some will even show you the dipstick to validate claim engine needs oil.Oldest trick in book to sell you more oil.It is then overfull causing a smoky exhaust.Always check on level ground when cold to give accurate reading.Conversely auto-trans fluid ...Mar 12, 2014read more >>