Constant control
After every second refueling, you should grab the dipstick to measure the oil level. During break-in or with an older engine with increased oil consumption, the control is carried out after each full filling of the fuel tank.
- Put the car on a horizontal platform.
- After turning off a preheated engine, let it cool for at least five minutes to allow all the oil to drain into the oil pan. It is even better to check the oil level before the first start with the engine still cold.
- Pull out the dipstick - be careful when the engine is hot, the nearby exhaust manifold is very hot; wipe it with a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel, insert it all the way back in, wait a moment and remove it.
Left:The photo shows the oil filler pipe in the cap (2) cylinder heads. If you need to add it, unscrew the cap (1) and add the appropriate amount of oil.
On right: when checking the oil level, the dipstick is removed from the guide tube. The oil level must be between the marks (arrows). The measurement will only be accurate if the vehicle is standing on a level surface.
On the rod you can see the oil level: it should be between the markings; in this case everything is fine.
If the oil level reaches only the lower mark, then it must be topped up.
Tip: Don't be put off by the fact that high-quality oil darkens after a short time. It only proves that it's right «works» and contains dirt in the form of suspension. But this is not a sign that the oil needs to be changed.
The amount of oil between the lower and upper markings on the dipstick for measuring its level is 1 liter. The oil level must not fall below the lower mark. Although the lack of a quarter liter of oil for the engine is not yet dangerous. But if there is not enough more oil, then with a sharp driving style of the Vectra, the oil pressure can drop to a dangerous level, which will immediately show the oil pressure warning light.
Topping up oil
- With a moderate driving style, it is enough to add oil, as already mentioned, if its level has reached the bottom mark on the dipstick.
- With a sharp driving style, it is recommended to add oil if its level is in the lower quarter between the two marks on the dipstick. More oil can do a better job of cooling.
- You won't do your engine any good if you fill the oil much higher than the top mark on the dipstick. In this case, too much oil enters the combustion chambers through the crankcase exhaust and burns there.
Tip: Oil is rarely sold in half-liter jars, mostly in liter containers that cannot be closed again. If you bought inexpensive oil in a larger container, then you should pour it into a small, mineral oil-resistant canister and put it in the trunk. The rest of the opened liter container is also drained into the same canister as a reserve for the road.
Can oils be mixed?
Motor oils of all manufacturers can be mixed without any harm, including seasonal with all-season (see next. page). This miscibility of oils without harmful effects is one of the main requirements of international standards for oils. In this case, compliance with the specification is decisive.
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