Engine Oil Level, Checking

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 2009 Volkswagen GLI, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2008 Volkswagen GLI. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

After stopping the engine, wait for at least 3 minutes for the oil to flow back into the oil pan.

Pull the dipstick out, wipe if off with a clean cloth and then insert it back in all the way.

Observe waste disposal regulations!

-- Pull out dipstick again and read oil level.

If the dipstick appears as illustrated:

Fig 1: Identifying Oil Levels Shown On Different Dipstick Types

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

A - Oil must not be topped off.

B - Oil can be topped off. This will cause the oil level to be in area -A-.

C - Oil must be topped off. It is sufficient when oil level is in area -B- (grooved field).

If oil level is above area -A-, the catalytic converter can be damaged.

-- When oil level is below marking -C-, top off with oil to marking -A-. Oil specification, refer to Maintenance, Diagnosis