[Revn29k00]

So I have read that the oil level sensor may become faulty giving inaccurate readings. Twice in the last 2 days I have had it tell me that I need to add 1 quart of oil. Oil was changed about 3000k ago so I find it hard to believe it is this low since I don't see any visible leaks. Both times I take another reading and it says its ok.

I know the car needs to be warmed up to read properly but my question is if I am parked on a slight decline will I get this notification on cold start? Is it possible that my oil level sensor in NG? Levels seem ok once warm. I just want to make sure my oil level is ok and that I am not at risk of damage. I wish these cars still had a dipstick.

Thanks

[Dozhdbog]

My oil readings were occasionally coming back as needing a quart, but then after 20 minutes or so of driving, it would read normal again. Turned out when the dealership replaced an oil gasket under warranty, the didn't seat the wire going to the oil sensor properly, which caused the weird readings.

[Revn29k00]

I've been monitoring the last two days and same thing happens to me every time. It always reads low oil at first then 20-30 mins later the oil level is ok. I'll be taking it into the dealer shortly to have it looked at. I'm thinking there is a faulty sensor or connection and not low oil.

[Dozhdbog]

Good luck. Let us know how it goes.

[Bimmertech113]

Not uncommon for the early n52 engines to have erratic oil level readings. It due to moisture in the crankcase. Get it good and hot before you read oil level. Even a 20 minute drive on the highway is a good idea before reading it. Always check for leaks though.

[Revn29k00]

Got the car back today. Looks like I was right. I had them do an oil change since I didn't have a recent record of an oil change from the previous owner. After they changed the oil the reading was still not what they expected. They did some tests on the sensor and found no resistance so they replaced the sensor. Oil readings are perfect now. This just reinforces my original post of wishing these cars still had dipsticks. If I would have added 1 quart of oil I could have overfilled the engine with oil and potentially caused engine damage.

On a side note I talked with the service adviser about oil consumption on our cars. He stated it is normal to loose 1 quart of oil between 2000-2500 km. I thought this seemed excessive but he assured me it was normal. That is why if you get an oil change at the dealer they will top your oil up for free.