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Should I check my engine oil when it’s hot or when it’s cold?

I try to check my engine oil on a regular basis to ensure my engine is running smoothly. I usually wait for my engine to cool off before checking the oil, but I heard that it’s better to check the oil while it's still warm. Should I check my engine oil when it's hot or cold?

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Kara Vanderbeek · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Checking your oil regularly is a great way to maintain optimum vehicle performance. However, with all of the information out there, it can be confusing to know the right steps to take to do so.
In most cases, it’s recommended that you wait 10 or 15 minutes for your engine to cool down and settle in the oil pan before checking the oil. However, recent recalibrations of dipsticks allow for drivers to check their oil while the engine is still warm.
To check the specific instructions for your vehicle, refer to your owner’s manual.
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