Dipstick the worst to read after oil change

The paper or napkin idea is good.. you're probably doing this but flip the stick over and check both sides. Sometimes if I think I'm at the top notch I'll insert the dipstick but leave it out maybe .5 inch, then pull and look for the "line" to be about .5 inch down ..

 

Like 350z and the pathfinder! You can fold the stick over just trying to get it in the hole.

 

All Nissan dipsticks require you to let it cool before checking.. if not, the oil would run up the stick making it impossible to read.

I have never changed oil on a 3rd Gen but I imagine you have to do the same thing.

Source: worked at a oil change in high school.

 

I like it!

 

if your older it may be time for reading glasses like myself...lol

 

Yep.

I'm not sure if a cross hatch pattern cut in the end where you read it would help with this 0-20 oil, but the decision to use a smooth dipstick certainly does not lol.

 

Hey when you're right you're right...

 

I remove the dip stick, wipe it clean then wait 10-15 minutes before reinserting to check level. No issues if i wait 10-15 minutes for oil to drain from tube.

 

Same problem here, I couldn't tell at all. And I've been changing mine and my wife's oil since I was old enough to drive. I put in 6 quarts and called it a day.

 

At least you were able to get your dipstick out

 

This thread got me thinking, I'm going to rough mine up with some fine sand paper on the lower few inches. I think a nice matte surface will indicate the level even better!

 

WHY, WHY, WHY would you do this?

Lol

 

I'm not sure if that picture is taken right after an oil change but my oil is nearly invisible after a change, even after running it for a minute to mix in the leftover with the new.

 

lol
I like it! I'm older then I was yesterday, does that count?

 

Is that fresh oil, or oil that's been run awhile?

After an oil change, my oil is nearly transparent, not dark like yours.

 

It's been an issue on the 2nd gen too. I have a lot of trouble reading mine after an oil change and pretty much have given up.

Like others have said - I drain the oil, change the filter, pour in the recommended amount of oil (after carefully measuring it), and keep my fingers crossed.

 

^ this

Looks more like an nice amber beer colour than the near transparent oil in my truck after an oil change.

 

Yes, it is true that it is difficult to read the dipstick, especially when oil is new/clean and low viscosity.

However, we all should be THANKFUL that Toyota still has a dipstick on Tacoma.
Some manufacturers don't even have a dipstick anymore on their cars like Mini and BMW. Instead, they have electronic gauge on dash which requires engine to be idling at operating temperature on level surface. And you have to wait a few minutes. It's a genuine PITA. Not knowing that, I spent 10+ minutes to look for the dipstick when I first bought a new Mini and brought it home!

 

sounds like maybe next oil change use Royal Purple.

 

everyday we are older my friend...enjoy them while you can cause they go by so fast so make the best of it...