Sure this subject is covered somewhere, but I cannot find it now.

So... I changed my oil in Regensburg, De aproximatively 8.000 km ago. I've checked the dipstick 500 km ago and it was still at high mark, or .

In the last 6 days, I've received two warnings: "Oil level at minimum", instructing to refill. Today I've checked the dipstick and it was 3-4 milimeters below the previous level (max IIRC). Anyway, the level seems to be above the normal (half) level and I am somehow reluctant to refill 1l of oil, and I am concerned about overfill.

Any ideea what to do?

 

I am attaching a picture to help my explanation.

 

No ideea?

 

I certainly wouldn't add oil above the top mark. I might top it up to the mark just to see if it would quiet the error messages.

 

I find this warning on iDrive, quietly. I notice warning sign, and tell myself, what the heck? Then when I shut off the engine, it shows again, going BLING... Then, when I start again, nothing wrong, no warning.

Can it be because I've made last 500-600 kms in town only...? Short journeys, lots of starts...

 

always trust the dipstick. PERIOD.

the oil inside the engine moves around during driving, if the oil is mid to low levels (but not low enought to need a refill) when the oil shifts/moves and does not hit the right spot on the sensor, you'll get the low oil warning light.
after the engine is switched off things and the oil settles, the low oil warning disappears.

keep in mind if the oil senor is on when you start the car after the engine cools for a few hours, then you are definitely low on oil.
usually for my driving style, i need to add a bottle (1 quart) after 7000 kms, that is how i keep a mental record.

from the photo here you can add 1/2 a bottle, but i'll wait till it goes lower to empty 1 full bottle (1 quart).
drive another 3000km or so the ncheck dipstick again.

 

Thanks rollee! Great advice. I always expect 1l (a bottle) per 8.000 - 10.000 kms with my driving style.