Oil level checking

[BOF]

'03 9-5 Aero. Is the oil level meant to be checked with the dipstick fully screwed home, or just resting against the spring? I've always done it with it just against the spring, which must be a fail-safe, but is it right?

BOF

[nine-fiver]

Don't think it makes any difference. I wondered that a while back. When you press the cap down against the spring I'm not so sure that dipstick moves any further down into the sump pan.

How's the consumption? What oil are you using?

[BOF]

Uses very little oil between changes - I put in the recommended amount (of 5W40 full synth sl/CF or better), and it drops a little - less than half a litre - by the next change, which is usually at about 3000 miles done (every six months, not on mileage).

You're right about the dipstick - it's only the cap that moves down when it is screwed down, not the dipstick. I used to know that, but I guess I forgot...

BOF

[nine-fiver]

Good to hear.
Our Linear Eats oil. But my now deceased Aero didn't use a drop. Go figure.
So I keep popping the bonnet evey two weeks, check and top up. Now am using a fully synthetic 10W40 with a bonus 50 rating. The car is SO quiet. Starts a little slow but is more refined, accelerates like its new, and gives fabulous highway economy. Try 6.6L /100km.
Not too shabby for a car that has done 170,000km and is 11.