Checking Oil Level on the Dipstick

I don't want to sound like a dipstick, but how do you guys manage to read the oil level on your dipsticks? On my stick it is very difficule to get a good reading. The oil in th dipstick tube smears on the stick.

Any help is appreciated.

 

Stop engine, remove dipstick, wait 5 minutes, insert and remove.
One side or the other will give a decent reading.

Pulling the stick out smears oil up the tube. Waiting a few minutes gives it a chance to drain down.

 

When you pull the stick it carries some oil up the tube... best to wait 15 minutes to let the oil drain back down before reinserting to get your reading. Also, etching the area between the high/low marks with sandpaper or a file helps.

 

I've found the only way to get an accurate measurement on mine is first thing in the morning before I start the engine. After the first pull you will have the same problem with smeared readings. Just make sure the stick is all the way down in the morning, pull and read. I tried sandblasting the end of the stick, and that helped a little, but the dipstick on these things is pretty fucked.

 

Find the full mark and drill a small hole at the line. Oil level is easy to see in the hole.

Ray

 

Another option is to file a small "v" notch at the correct point on the dipstick - might be easier than drilling.

 

Thanks for the comments!

 

I have the same complaint on my 2010 Tacoma and 07 4Runner. You're not the only one.

Like others have said, you have to wait for everything to settle. This makes checking levels at the gas station between fills impossible, unless you have half hour to kill.

 

wait until the oil is dirtier?

i am having no problems..i let the truck sit for awhile. it is difficult when the oil is super fresh and clean.

 

I prefer to check it after it sits overnite every week or so - allows the dipstick tube to drip back into the pan. Also eyeball radiator overflow tank and windshield washer fluid tank while you're under the hood.

 

Thanks guys! I am going to go to the let it sit and pull the stick once to get a reading procedure.

I have always pulled the stick, wipped it, replaced the stick, and pulled it a second time for the reading. But with the Taco they just doesn't work.

 

Not sure what it is... I'd have to drop the pan to confirm my suspicions, but I have a feeling that the dipstick tube extends down into the sump to guide the dipstick to prevent it from being hit (and wrapping up in) the crank.

That would explain why it seems that the stick seems to draw an excessive amount of oil up the tube when withdrawn.
I'd bet that you could suck on the tube and draw oil out of the engine.

 

I find mine difficult to read as well. Gotta check it a few times.

 

Rich, this was exactly what I was thinking. Spot on, sir.

 

The way I do it;check and see what it show's when I first pull it out.Then I spray the dipstick with brake clean;check again.Seams that the brake clean "helps"the oil stick to the stick.This seams to work good for me.

 

If anyone sucks on that tube, I want video!!!

 

The way it is supposed to be done is to pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a shop rag. Insert and pull it out a 2nd time to get an accurate reading.

 

I Googled "2015 Toyota Tacoma oil check" and got here. So it's not just me. Been checking oil for 60+ yrs and have never had as
much trouble with checking the oil on my 2015 Tacoma, so glad it's not dementia setting in. Will try suggestions. Thanks.

 

I must be lucky. The oil level on my '15 Tacoma is easier to read than my '14 4R or my '06 Avalon.

 

Your spose to check it ? I just change mine every 6 to 7 thousand miles.