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Too much oil?
Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2016 10:52 am
by colinwoods
Quick question... If i've put too much oil in my car is it bad for it?
Thanks
Re: Too much oil?
Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2016 11:14 am
by tony g
Depends how much over it is. A few mm on the stick wont hurt but 2 litres may cause oil burning due to splash from the crank and breathers may get a bit wet with oil.
Tony
Re: Too much oil?
Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2016 11:20 am
by Tamworthbay
As said above a few extra mm on the dip won't be harmful, but significant amounts cause a variety of problems. In extreme cases the crank will be immersed in the oil and the bottom of the stroke and 'slap' it every revolution and this can trash the engine. It's easier to just drain the excess of if you have put a lot extra in.
Re: Too much oil?
Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2016 11:32 am
by colinwoods
Thanks Guys... i'll check the level propoerly tonight and see if I need to drain. I assume there is a nut/plug somewhere at the lowest point of the engine?
Much appreciated
Re: Too much oil?
Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2016 11:41 am
by Tamworthbay
Yup, just the normal drain plug, but make sure you are ready to catch it as it comes out quick!
Re: Too much oil?
Posted: Mon May 02, 2016 6:01 pm
by colinwoods
Goodness me! You weren't kidding @tamworthbay
All sorted, I drained a good pint or two out... All over my hands, but luckily into the bowl!

Re: Too much oil?
Posted: Mon May 02, 2016 8:11 pm
by 80Sprint
What made you put too much in, was it very low on the dipstick ?
Unless you are burning it you may have a leak you need to get fixed if it goes down quickly.
Sounds like you are new to car maintenance but we all have to start somewhere and plenty of advice available on here.
Re: Too much oil?
Posted: Tue May 03, 2016 5:16 pm
by soe8m
Colin maybe you did know but between the lower and upper mark it is about 1 liter so you can guess reasonable accurate what to top up.
Jeroen
Re: Too much oil?
Posted: Thu May 05, 2016 9:39 am
by colinwoods
Thanks all.
Yes, I'm fairly new to mechanics and I'm learning as I go. Great help from this forum, so thanks everyone.
FYI, I do have an oil leak however it's in the garage as we speak :/