Idiot Question about Oil

[blugnu]

I've never been able to get a definitive answer as to when you are supposed to check the oil level.

Is it when it's cold? Or a bit warm? Or hot?

This was never a problem when I lived somewhere flat, as I just checked it every now and again, sometimes first thing and sometimes after a short drive.

Now I live on a steep hill and park on the road it's a bit trickier to check.

If I drive to my local petrol station (2 miles) and check it there, how long would PHers recommend leaving it stand before I check it?

Cheers

[blugnu]

thanks Andy - the car does have a temperature gauge, but I presume that's coolant temp. It's a 15 minute drive home though, so I will do it then as I need petrol anyway. Thanks again.

[blugnu]

thanks all - warm is good - I'll add 'check oil' to 'buy petrol' and 'check tyre pressures' on my 'things to do at the garage' list. Might as well check everything else there too I suppose, as they very kindly provide light, gloves and that blue tissue