Engine oil overfill?

PHREEBIRD

MEMBER
1988 HONDA CRX
1.6L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
400,000 MILES

I have just changed the oil in my vehicle and although I measured the recommended amount (3.7 quarts) as I poured from a 5 quart jug, according to the dipstick it is slightly overfilled. On level ground with cold engine, the stick is showing about 1/2" above the full level. Is this a problem? Thank you.

Thursday, July 6th, 2023 AT 11:39 AM

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Hi,

I would recommend removing it. However, did you start the engine before you checked the level? If you didn't, start the engine and allow it to run for five or ten seconds, and shut it off. Wait a couple of minutes and then check the level. If you checked it before doing this, it will be slightly overfull. The oil filter will hold oil.

If it is still over full, try to drain a small amount from the drain plug. It's a messy job, but I would rather have the oil slightly under the full mark than over.

Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

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Thursday, July 6th, 2023 AT 11:06 PM

PHREEBIRD

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thank you. Yes, I did start the engine and let it run a minute or two, then turned it off and allowed the oil to drain back down for several minutes. With the level registering at 1/2" above the full mark, roughly how much oil would you recommend I remove? 1 pint? 1 quart? Thank you.

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Friday, July 7th, 2023 AT 4:23 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

If you look at the dipstick, there is a low or add line and a full line. The distance between those two marks is one quart. Compare that distance to the 1/2" you are over full.

To make it easier, I would start by trying to get about 1/2 quart out of it. Once you do that, then you can check to see where it is on the stick. Be ready because as soon as you remove the drain plug, the oil will come rushing out. This isn't going to be a clean job. LOL

Let me know how you make out or if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

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