So I changed my oil today and added about 9.8 - 9.9 quarts. There was just a little left in the second 5 quart jug. I carefully added some oil while checking the dip stick frequently. I made sure the level was just at (maybe a hair above) the top dot on the dip stick. After that, I went out for a spirited drive.

Now 4 hours later, when the car is relatively cool, I checked the level again. However, the level is now significantly higher than before. It's definitely past the top dot, not by a lot, but definitely more than before.

 

Completely normal. When the engine cools, the oil drains back into to oil pan.

 

Gotcha. I guess that is why in the DIY maintenance manual says to:

I don't think I overfilled it either. I only had the two 5 quart jugs to fill it with. I had the car up on Race Ramps and let the oil drain for about 15 minutes. By having the car higher in the front compared to the rear, I imagine that allowed for more oil to drain as opposed to having the car level on the ground.

 

Yes, you're completely fine. Oil should be checked when the engine is at operating temperature.

 

Crap. I've been checking oil cold..

 

I always check it cold as well, the main concern is that you have oil in the engine. A little high or a little low won't kill anything.

 

I always put 9 in 1st... then go back after a bit to add in the amount needed to get to the dot.


~ Joe Z