When is the best time to check my engine oil levels? I just checked with the engine cold and the dip stick read zero oil. I started it up and check while running and there was lots. I should have lots of oil as it doesn't burn any (from what I can tell) and there are no leaks. I just don't want to add too much oil to the car. 1971 Cutlass with a 350 Rocket.

Thanks.

 

You can't check oil while the engine is running. It is not like an automatic transmission. Best to check it when it is cold since all the oil has drained back to the oil pan. If you have the correct dipstick, you need to add oil. Oil will splash all over the dipstick when the engine is running and the oil is circulating.

 

The best time to check the oil is when the engine is warm from running but enough time has passed for oil to drain back into the pan. Second best is cold. Obviously ensure the car is parked level when doing this.

 

Okay. Thanks for the responses.