[jeepkeep]

I've had my compass for about 4 mths. now. a few days ago I checked the engine oil level. I checked it while cold on level ground. The oil level was exactly half way in the safe section on the dip stick. So I added almost half a liter which brought it to the very top of the safe crossed section. I'm hoping I didn't add too much. The manual says the level should be about halfway, but reading other website information, they say you should top it up to the full mark. I'm wondering if it's okay to have the level right at the full mark, or a little above.

 

[Cherokee]

Just had the dealer perform my first oil change, and the level was up to full. Too much oil presents its own set of problems, as does too little, but you should be fine with that.

 

[jeepkeep]

about oil level

Thanks for your reply cherokee. I appreciate it and feel more at ease now. I'm also wondering how much oil overfill would be a problem for the engine.

 

[Cherokee]

This is a different engine, but same fundamental principle, i.e. too little oil equals not enough lubrication of critical engine components, increasing friction, which increases heat and engine wear. However, by the same token, running your Compass, for example with the oil level up to full on the oil level indicator, particularly when breaking in a new engine, assists in helping seals to seat properly, but with too much oil, you run the risk of blowing seals. After all, it is a fluid under pressure, and if there is too much pressure, it will find a way out, either through a seal or, in some worst case scenarios, through the crankshaft. As with my '91 Cherokee, I have had many many oil problems, everything from the CCV to rear-main engine seal and valve cover gasket/rocker cover. So, in that one, as long as I am between full and add, I have found that that level works the best. Just keep it at full, and you should be fine; the dealership told me that was the best thing to do. No need to add oil everytime it dips slightly below the line, but any noticeable drops, or if it is more frequent than what could be considered normal, I would get it checked out. Just remember, how far and how long you drive, etc. plays a role.

 

[farout]

While reading the Owners Manual (yes some males do read the Owners Manual) it said to only check the engine oil when the engine is warm. So I checked it when it had sat overnight, it showed just a hair above the add line. I went to get the mail, checked it when the engine was warm, right even with the full line. This is different for any other vehicle I have ever owned.

farout

 

[Pro-Pain]

Well after it sits for a few minutes your oil level will rise. but what makes me scratch my head is why your having to "add" oil on a brand new suv?

with these "safe" ranges for dipsticks I like to put the oil right around the E in safe.

 

[farout]

I personally have not had to add any oil. At my first oil change it was down only enough from the full line to even tell it has used any oil. At 5,550 miles it is not noteworthy to even mention how little oil has been used.

I can tell you if you check your oil when it's not warm it will show it needs oil, as I checked this out and as odd as it seems the Owners Manual is right.