Why is my 'front' dipstick level reads lower than the 'back'? ('front' means the word ENGINE on the dipstick white holder, as default, facing me standing in front of the car if that makes sense). For example if the oil level at the front is halfway between low and full marks, the back always reads full. Note dipstick is not bent and checking is done in cold and level surface. Has anyone observed this or is it just me. Worried of overfill/underfill....

Thanks in advance!

 

It is because when you pull the dipstick out, the tube is curved to enter the engine and still be accessible for checking oil leve. So as you pull the stick out, one side will drag along the curve and wipe off some of the oil, while the other side is untouched. Try flipping the stick over so "engine" is upside down facing you, and do it again, it'll do the same thing. Nothing is wrong, go by the higher reading you are getting for oil level, you'll be fine.

 

I just flipped the stick i.e ENGINE facing firewall. Both front and back sides read full?? Thanks for the reply.

 

Any ideas anyone?