mwr Report post Posted February 2, 2016 (edited) Yesterday I parked the car in a level parking lot for at least 15 minutes, then made several attempts to read the oil level, always wiping the dipstick before I reinserted it (letting it sit there for 10 seconds) then removing it and reading it. I found... Inconsistent readings on the "hatched" side of the stick, from one half (between the high and low marks) to only a small amount at the bottom of the stick (and other levels in between). - Usually nothing at all showing on the "non-hatched" side of the stick. I have 19,000 miles on the car, 9,000 miles on this oil with no oil added. Needless to say I'm adding a quart today as I'll be near the dealer and will get a quart of the 50-50 blend. But why the very inconsistent readings and why nothing showing on the non-hatched side of the stick? Edited February 2, 2016 by mwr Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Griswald Report post Posted February 3, 2016 Don't add oil until you figure it out. An extra quart can cause tons of problems. You might be best off taking it to a Ford shop and explaining your issue. Let them make the call if it needs oil. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mwr Report post Posted February 3, 2016 Don't add oil until you figure it out. An extra quart can cause tons of problems. You might be best off taking it to a Ford shop and explaining your issue. Let them make the call if it needs oil.I don't think it could be an "extra" quart after 9000 miles without adding any. Anyway, I added a quart yesterday and will check it properly (sitting level for at least 15 minutes) today. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
borland Report post Posted February 3, 2016 The dip stick end is bent in two places so that the cross-hatching won't rub on the dip stick tube when inserted or removed. You only need to read the cross-hatching side. For more accurate reading, you should only check the oil when the engine is cold. The owner's manual recommended 15 minute wait is just not enough time for the oil to fully drain to the pan. The owner's manual recommends not adding oil if the oil level is between the dipstick drilled holes as this lessens the chances of over filling. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mwr Report post Posted February 4, 2016 I checked it today and the oil is at the top hole on the dipstick. Glad I added a quart. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Griswald Report post Posted February 4, 2016 11000 without any added oil on my last run. Still full. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
hybridbear Report post Posted February 4, 2016 I'd be concerned if your car is consuming oil already. We've never had to add oil. Some owners, like ptjones, have over 100k miles and their 2.0L ICE still consumes no oil. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
