petem77

I've noticed a few times with my 530d (231BHP version) that when checking the oil level the first pull of the dipstick shows a very low oil level (& on one occasion no oil at all). After reinserting and checking again, the level is normal.

It looks as if maybe I'm getting a build-up of an air pocket over time which displaces the oil to a false low level, which is released thus causing a return to normal level when the dipstick is pulled.

Anyone come across this or got a better theory?

For this to be the correct explanation the dipstick tube must extend down to or beyind the lowest point on the dipstick - anyone know if it actually does?

marklp

Yes this happens with me as well. First couple of times I thought "oh shyte!". Don't have an explanation sorry.

jrsamps

Oh you're talking about your E60. I thought this referred to my wife when she gets on one of her tirades.

petem77

Thanks Mark. Me too.

Anyone else come across this or have any explanations?

katheikia

If you have ever noticed a mechanic checking oil level, they always insert the dipstick a couple of times to get an accurate reading..So I guess its normal.