* Engine Oil - how much do I put in? *

BSPOKE20

Hi I have a 1999 VW Golf 1.4 litre, dip stick is telling me theres practically no oil in the engine, so how much do I put in? it doesn't tell you in the manual but I've since put in one litre but I know putting too much in is worse than putting too little in, anyone know how much I an engine normally takes, rules of thumb for size of engine etc.....Thanks in advance.

colm_mcm

There should be a min and max mark on the dipstick or a marked/etched area showing min and max.

The engine would take about 4 litres altogether. If the engine had no oil it wouldn't run. chances are 2 litres would do.

Make sure you don't overfill it and check the dipstick a few times as you fill and just add small amounts.

Esel

Wait a few minutes after topping up to check the dipstick, and make sure the car is on a level surface.

ytareh

Use a clean rag or worst case kitchen paper towel in between dips ...better do it ten times and get it right than over fill and have to empty out the extra.A little over isnt a disaster but much over would probably have to be 'dropped' out.

langdang

Most smaller engines take about 1 litre from min to max on dipstick?
Should say it in manual. As already said - don't forget to wipe.
As indicated by esel - not all of of this oil will get down to the sump straightaway - let the oil drain down for 10 mins and remeasure.
If the dipstick was showing a small amount, and you've put in 1L, I reckon you should be very close to where you should be...