How much oil should I put in? It's 1/4 inch below the "optimum range" on the dipstick. So how much?

Question

I drive a 90 Oldsmobile Ciera, and I just need to know how many quarts to put in. I don't want to overfill. Thanks.

Answer 1

The rule of thumb is that the distance between the low and full marks on the dipstick is one quart, how ever far below it is from that is a measurement from the markings. If it is 1/4 inch, on most makes, it is about 1/4 of a quart of oil. As long as your level is in the operating range, no damage will occur.

Answer 2

1/4" on the dipstick is about a 1/4 of a quart or 25% of a bottle of oil. I manage a garage in Detroit and worked at Jiffy Lube for 9 years!

Answer 3

It takes one quart to move the level from the bottom of the optimum range to the top. Add a quart, drive a while and check it again.

Answer 4

NOT QUARTS - there is no need to add oil until it reaches the mark in between full and low - this is the 1/2 quart mark and that's what you add !

PAY ATTENTION TO THE MARKINGS on the dipstick not the 'dipstick' answers above

Answer 5

Slowly add about an once at a time until the dipstick shows full.

The oil bottle should be marked for 32 ounces. Most stop at 28.

Just take your time and don't be in a hurry.

Answer 6

If it's 1/4 inch below the lower normal range mark, I'd put in a quart, let it sit a minute and recheck.

Answer 7

If it's in the cross-hatched area, do not add any. Otherwise, add 4 ounces, wait a few minutes for it to flow into the crankcase and check the dipstick again. If it's in the optimum range area, then stop.

Answer 8

Usually, it's 1 qu between Min and Max marks.

Answer 9

probably half a quart to 1 quart

Answer 10

Your O.K....add when gets 1 inch down...then add 1 quart