Oil level check

[Affleck]

Can anyone explain why the oil level on my Outback has to be checked exactly after five minutes after switching off. I do this every time without really knowing the reason apart from it says so in the handbook!

[mattiekane]

I don't know why exactly 5 mins, but you usually wait to allow oil to return to the sump.

Hth

Loud pipes save lives

[Affleck]

Yes I realize that but it says not to wait any longer than five minutes because you will get a false reading

[mattiekane]

Is it the bit that says

'oil level should not be check for at least 5 minutes after shutting engine off, see section 3 of the owners manual for more information.'

Loud pipes save lives

[Affleck]

Yes I realize that but it says not to wait any longer than five minutes because you will get a false readin

[mattiekane]

I have no idea of the exact reason they wouldn't want you to check it after 5, it could possibly be todo with heat soak from other engine components at a guess.

Sorry I couldn't be of more use

Loud pipes save lives

[Affleck]

Extract from handbook......For diesel engine models make sure to check engine oil level 5 mins after engine stops . Waiting any longer will prevent accurate oil measurement....page 11.20...When I check in accordance with book its ok if I wait say 10 mins the level rises. There must be a reason but I don't know what  it  is.

[shms]

might it be to do with the baffled sump ?

 

 

[Affleck]

I'm not sure what that means. I've asked a Subaru garage here in Spain but they don't  seem to know.

[mattiekane]

I'm sticking with heat soak into the oil causing it to expand and giving you a false reading

Loud pipes save lives