XSeries-forum

Just noticed something that when I drove the X5 back to the garage after a 20min motorway drive .
Basically I pulled the dipstick out on the 4.0d to check oil while the engine was running. That’s not what I normally do but didn’t realise it was running and forgot.
What happened was I noticed some air or steam come out of the dipstick hole. So I put it straight back and switched car off. I then check oil which as at the maximum.
I’ve check oil with cars running before and this has never happened to me.
Does anyone have an explanation? I know it’s a dumb question but it’s still bugging me.


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Didn't think you could get a proper reading with the engine running.

You have positive crankcase ventilation so will get gases from the engine system in the crankcase hence the steam/vapour.  Nothing to worry about unless your oil filler cap is showing ‘mayonnaise’ or your coolant level is falling.

As above, engine running will give wrong level - which you weren’t checking I know - and you need to wait at least 5 mins before checking it again.

Yes I wasn’t checking level. I just read about the dipstick and found something which i pulled out and yes it was the oil dipstick quite hidden.
So then turned engine off and took reading later.
Haven’t check oil filler cap but I doubt there will s problem as any issues could have thrown codes anyway. Will check Friday if I remember.
Thanks for reassure X5sport.


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Perfectly normal don't worry.