Oil usage / regular checks - 07MY Vantage
Discussion
Hello folks,
8 months into ownership and halfway through a 1400 mile driving break to Scotland and I've been religiously checking the oil every second tank of fuel since last December - but not sure why! It hasn't used a drop in 5k miles! What led to this being included in the handbook?
I thought perhaps this roadtrip would highlight a little oil usage with running for hours on end at speed - but nothing. Is this the same for most cars?
Thanks!
Kris
8 months into ownership and halfway through a 1400 mile driving break to Scotland and I've been religiously checking the oil every second tank of fuel since last December - but not sure why! It hasn't used a drop in 5k miles! What led to this being included in the handbook?
I thought perhaps this roadtrip would highlight a little oil usage with running for hours on end at speed - but nothing. Is this the same for most cars?
Thanks!
Kris
I thnk most high performance car handbooks recommend regular oil checks. For the sake of five minutes and a top-up if needed you could save thousands in engine repair bills.
The Audi S4 had a nice warning symbol that came up when the oil dropped to halfway between the high and low marks on the dipstick. A litre added and all was well again but that top-up was needed every couple of thousand miles. The Audi diesels are also reknowned for using oil at a great rate. If I ignored the warning then I was running the risk of engine damage.
Does the V8V have an engine oil warning light when the level drops? If not the perhaps that is why AM suggest regular checks. You may never use any oil but at least checking confirms or otherwise that that is the case.
The Audi S4 had a nice warning symbol that came up when the oil dropped to halfway between the high and low marks on the dipstick. A litre added and all was well again but that top-up was needed every couple of thousand miles. The Audi diesels are also reknowned for using oil at a great rate. If I ignored the warning then I was running the risk of engine damage.
Does the V8V have an engine oil warning light when the level drops? If not the perhaps that is why AM suggest regular checks. You may never use any oil but at least checking confirms or otherwise that that is the case.
Thanks Simon,
There is certainly an oil pressure light - good call on the "low oil", I guess there isn't - although I would happily trade one of the hyper-sensitive exhaust sensors for a oil level one.
I will continue checking (it takes no time as you say) but having done the same on my M3 for over two years, I just expected at least a little oil consumption to mark the occasion at times. I never used a drop in that either - maybe I am too gentle with my cars
There is certainly an oil pressure light - good call on the "low oil", I guess there isn't - although I would happily trade one of the hyper-sensitive exhaust sensors for a oil level one.
I will continue checking (it takes no time as you say) but having done the same on my M3 for over two years, I just expected at least a little oil consumption to mark the occasion at times. I never used a drop in that either - maybe I am too gentle with my cars
v8woollie said:
On the subject of checking the oil, don't you agree that the cap for the oil reservoir is beautifully machined. The best quality oil reservoir cap I have ever had Also, I just sent you a PM on a different matter.
Absolutely, v12 owners miss out on that!, mine used a bit of oil, but now mileage is around 25,000, it doesn't seem to be using oil anymore!Have topped up my V8 a few times. Some use a bit of oil some don't, but still worth checking as by the time you get the low oil pressure light it could well be too late.
For a V8V to check the oil.
Ensure car is on level ground and engine is cold.
Start engine, and run it at 2000-2500rpm for 30 seconds.
Turn off engine.
Wait 30 seconds
Remove dipstick (you're right Woolie, it is lovely!), check oil level. Top up if necessary.
Remember, its a dry sump so you do need to carry out the above procedure to check it correctly. Checking it at a petrol station willl give false readings as it now warmed up, but still better than from cold with no circulation
For a V8V to check the oil.
Ensure car is on level ground and engine is cold.
Start engine, and run it at 2000-2500rpm for 30 seconds.
Turn off engine.
Wait 30 seconds
Remove dipstick (you're right Woolie, it is lovely!), check oil level. Top up if necessary.
Remember, its a dry sump so you do need to carry out the above procedure to check it correctly. Checking it at a petrol station willl give false readings as it now warmed up, but still better than from cold with no circulation
v8woollie said:
On the subject of checking the oil, don't you agree that the cap for the oil reservoir is beautifully machined. The best quality oil reservoir cap I have ever had Also, I just sent you a PM on a different matter.
It is, the cap is beautifully finished, just back from a drive across Skye, replied to your PM Gassing Station | Aston Martin | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff