Oil Level Reading

[Trawler]

Just wondered how often you checked the oil level while driving & what you think of the funny readings:

Normal/quick driving +0.8
Track work -----
Slow driving at constant speed/gear +1.1
Bit of fun on country roads +0.6 to 0.7

Always seems to return to +0.8 which is the level after an oil change. Done this now for 5 years

[Bounce]

mine always shows the same reading whatever the driving conditions.The only time it reads any differant is after an oil change.

[shimmy]

Originally Posted by Bounce

mine always shows the same reading whatever the driving conditions.The only time it reads any differant is after an oil change.

Mine also, except occasionally after a Trackday it will read ------ for a few hours.


I'd get the sensor changed

[Trawler]

I'd get the sensor changed[/quote]

Thanks I will get it looked at

[Luke]

Is it an expensive thing to get done? Ie do they have to replace the oil etc?

[E30M3SE]

The level sensor is located in the bottom of the sump, a little away from the drain plug, so waiting for an oil change would make sense.

[Roland]

was just reading an older aftersales training for CSL mechanics.

it says there are 2 ways of measurments.



1. the long term measurement, thats the regular way we all do.

• it doesen't work:
• oiltemperatures below 60°C.
• if it shows only lines you did to much crusing in town
• or during or after track use.

2. the quick measurement, after oilservice and adding oil.

• it woks this way:
• engine has to be warm, oiltemperature over 60°C
• 1.park CSL horizontal
• 2.turn off the engine
• 3.go with BC to oillevel
• 4.start your engine and let it run for at least 2min. in idle
• 5.now push the Sport button, and keep it pushed

now it (should) shows you the actually oillevel in flashing numbers.
not flashing numbers show you the old longterm level.
what means the oiltemperature is to cold or your car isn't horizontal parked .
if the display shows only lines, measurement isn't ready.

sorry for bad translation.
will check it myself for the 1st time in april after waking up the garage queen

[mattCSLnut]

Originally Posted by E30M3SE

The level sensor is located in the bottom of the sump, a little away from the drain plug, so waiting for an oil change would make sense.

This is another common E46 fault and not exclusive to the M3 CSL, and as said before best changed @ an upcoming Oil & Filter Service
Pix below shows the oil level sensor and it's location, albeit on my old E46 320d but you get the idea.

[Trawler]

Originally Posted by E30M3SE

The level sensor is located in the bottom of the sump, a little away from the drain plug, so waiting for an oil change would make sense.

Yep, Gareth kindly checked the oil level (again) using the old fashioned dip stick & the sensor will be changed at the annual oil change.

[Trawler]

Roland,

Do you know why BMW do not use a device that measures the level when cold and the car is on a level surface? Too simple for them

What does the sensor measure, temp, pressure, flow and are there any fancy calculations?

Vielen Dank