Checking oil level

I just changed the oil on my 2020 TRD off road, 3.5 V6. My question is, when pushing the dipstick back in, it can go in to a gentle stop, or it can be pushed in about a quarter inch more with a little force. Sort of locked in, so the tube is flush with the dipstick pull. Which is the correct way? It would obviously make a difference in the oil level reading.

 

All the way in.

 

Lube the oring on the dip stick with Vaseline or something similar. It should fully insert with limited force.

Check 5 mins after running.

 

Right. My o ring was dry so I put a light film of oil on it. So is it supposed to go all the way in with a little force till pull ring is flush with tube?

 

Yes. All the way in. Other wise, you won’t get the correct oil level on the stick when checking.

 

I hate these dipsticks that are difficult to read . I just drain completely and fill with the required oil . Push dipstick all the way in if I see oil between the 2 lines I’m good .

 

Yeah, they are a pain. Especially after you change it, you have to read it in the sun at the right angle.

 

I will add that Honda plastic ones aren't much better. At least they have a crosshatch pattern.

 

Unless your truck is know to use oil in lieu of leak/burn put the dipstick in and leave it alone.

When changing the oil, replace filter and fill to correct level 6.2 quarts in your instance and shut the hood.

 

How do you know if you don't check it?

 

Lol, that’s funny.

 

As mentioned here before: You can create your own crosshatch pattern on the end of the dipstick, between the lines. It will give you a little more surface tension and make it a little easier to read.

 

I scuffed up the dipstick with sandpaper which made it easier to read. Also I check it after sitting overnight and I pull the stick out and read it, don’t wipe it and stab it again and then try to read it. If you do then all you did was drag oil up the tube and end up with oil smeared on the dipstick.

 

An engraver & a ruler should do it.

 

If you're feeling really adventurous, you could dip it in muratic acid up to the dimple.

 

I had the same issue once with a girlfriend.

 

Looks like a Damascus dipstick mod might be in the works! Groupbuy?!!

 

I know the manual says 6.2 quarts for my truck. I bought a box of 6 from the dealer. Level looks good so far but as others mentioned, it’s super hard to read level with clean oil. I have never had a vehicle or motorcycle that took the full stated amount of oil. I’d rather be a bit under than overfilled. Anyone else use 6 quarts even?

 

That wont work unless its got harder and softer metals

 

Ive spent several minutes redipping the dipstick trying to see if its filled properly or not