Introduction
Learn to check your engine oil level. Don't let it get low; it's the life blood of your car!
Tools
Parts
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Oil level is checked using the engine oil dip stick. It is located on the right side of the engine when facing it from the front of the car.
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The W123 used in this guide is a diesel car so the dip stick is located near the large secondary fuel filter and the injector hard lines. The items around your dip stick may look different.
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Pull the dipstick up and out towards the hood of the car.
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Have a shop rag ready to catch any drips from the tip of the dip stick as it comes out of the tube it resides in
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The dip stick will come out with oil covering the tip. On a diesel engine it is normal for the oil to be dark black; the oil is designed to hold the diesel soot in suspension. If this were a gas engine it would definitely be time to change the oil just by the visual appearance of it! On a diesel you'll have to go more by age or mileage.
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The oil level should fall somewhere between the notches on the tip of the stick. The notches mean:
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Low - add oil
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Full
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If oil is at or below the Low notch add oil slowly, checking the level occasionally, until it reaches the Full notch.
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Wipe the dipstick clean with a shop towel or other clean rag
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To be sure of the oil level check it a second time after wiping it clean as outlined in steps 2 and 3.
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Return the dipstick to the tube when completed and be sure to push it all the way in until it seats properly in the tip of the tube.
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To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.
Sorry, but you forgot to tell that this operation have to be made with the engine at the running temperature (stopped) , around 80ºC/176ºF, as per the owner’s manual.
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