12-08-2013, 09:26 AM | #1 |
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Checking the oil
I've been reading the Owner's Manual to figure out some details; checking the oil sounds like a mixed blessing. The engine has to be running and the oil warmed, and you have to be on level ground. So far so good; I suppose I could check it in the driveway when I return home, tho' they suggest that it might be better to be actually driving.
Any thoughts on this? The manual seems to indicate that there might be a substantial time lag between asking about the oil and actually getting a reading. I guess a conventional dipstick would have been too much to ask for... Thanks, Moon |
12-08-2013, 10:22 AM | #2 |
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Just check it during your drive....that's been the norm since 2006 at least.
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12-08-2013, 12:55 PM | #3 |
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How fussy is it about 'level'?
Level is something in short supply here in Westsylvania. Is there really that much of a time lag? If it gives you a quick response, it really won't be a problem...several minutes of level road may be another matter. Moon |
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12-08-2013, 01:03 PM | #4 |
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Just checked mine two days ago and it's hilly here in Columbia, SC. I would suggest not trying to check it until you have been driving a few minutes so it's already warmed up and if you it gives you a low reading check it again in a couple miles.
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12-08-2013, 02:37 PM | #5 |
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But it responded pretty much right away? No significant delay? I can see the merit to the oil being fully warmed.
Not much chance for empirical data right now; it's 20 damn degrees and short hops only at the moment. I'm sure its okay; just want to see how it works. Moon |
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12-08-2013, 05:42 PM | #6 |
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Relax...your X1 isn't about to lose oil that quickly. The vehicle itself will warn you when it approaches a litre / quart low, and then it's a simple matter to add.
I've only ever had one of our BMWs report a half-litre low.
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12-08-2013, 07:19 PM | #7 |
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If a low oil warning appears on the dash automatically, that might be less trouble in the long run.
As I said, I'm not terribly worried about it in the short term (I've got all of 256 miles on it); I just want to see how the process works. Moon |
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12-08-2013, 08:10 PM | #8 |
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Mine never seems to work. Just shows a little clock symbol then flips back to the previous screen after day 30 seconds
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12-08-2013, 09:16 PM | #9 |
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12-09-2013, 03:11 PM | #10 | |
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12-09-2013, 03:24 PM | #11 |
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I'm pretty sure that temp was achieved long before trying to check it. It just never works. The dipstick does though
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12-09-2013, 03:37 PM | #12 | |
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12-09-2013, 06:36 PM | #13 |
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I'd much rather have a gauge than dipstick, I'd rather trust the computer making a mistake than me making a mistake.
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12-10-2013, 10:28 AM | #14 |
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12-10-2013, 10:44 AM | #15 |
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My X1 responded immediately this morning while at 90deg C on the guage this morning. If your's isn't, something's wrong.
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12-10-2013, 02:25 PM | #16 |
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Pulling it out and getting oil on the side so you can't really tell where the mark is. You trying to tell me on a lawn mower, car, or other tools you don't question where the actual level is especially in a half dark garage. Many, many times I've checked a BMW several times to be sure what the level is especially when adding oil. Had many BMW's with a dipstick and again prefer it without
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01-13-2014, 06:58 AM | #17 |
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Actually, I'd prefer the dipstick as well. On my 2001 330i, the oil sensor went about 4 years ago. The Oil light would come on just after the car started and go off 30 seconds later. Given the cost to repair, I asked my mechanic if it was worth it, and he said, "As long as you check the dipstick on a regular basis, not to worry." And in reality, over 14 years, I only had to put in 1 quart of oil between oil changes.
Sometime the old fashioned way is better than all the new fangled electronic conveniences. I don't mind the new ways, just don't take away the simple mechanics. |
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01-13-2014, 08:00 AM | #18 |
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Find someone with a Mini and try it.
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01-13-2014, 03:58 PM | #19 | |
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I've replaced this myself on 4 different e46's, its very common and an easy job. The sensor is available outside of the bmw network as a 'Hella' branded part. Much cheaper aftermarket. Just change it out with a new gasket during your next oil change, very easy! |
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01-13-2014, 05:06 PM | #20 | |
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