Frank996

I have driven my 996 C4S about 2'500 km since I got it back in mid January when it was delivered fully serviced, meaning change of oil, filters etc.

Question 1: The oil check, when starting up the engine showed all bars fully lit, and now it's down 2 bars meaning that 6 of the 8 are lit up. Does this mean I should add more oil or can I go until it shows half full? What is the best thing to do?

So far not a drop of oil has leaked from the engine so I guess this is normal oil burning bringing the measurement down.

Question 2: I have read in here that best oil for a 2002 model at this time is to use 10W40 synthetic oil. The car has gone 86'000 km or thereabouts BUT the car dealer recommended 0W40 oil. So, again, which should I get?

Question 3: If question 1 is applicable for me to top it up, how much should I pour in there? 1 liter, 2 liters?

Concering Q2, if the oil has something to do with external temperatures (I have no clue) winter is over and I guess the service made back before delivery was with 0W40...

The DareDevil

1) Don't top it up right away (2 bars down is fine). If you do, it will only require a drop of oil; no where near a litre.

2) I'll be in Fribourg on Monday. How's the weather?

LexVan

2 bars down is no big deal. If you add any oil, add small amounts. It's about 350 ml per bar. So, add about 300-400 mls, and remeasure. Best to be a bar or 2 too low than to overfill these cars.

The DareDevil

Here's a page from the Owner's Manual. Note: "Full" is indicated when 7 of the 8 bars are lit.

Imo000

Check the dipstick and add as needed. I'm usimg Castrol Synthetic 5W40.

dennis hiip

Casper Labs(maker of the "other" IMS retrofit bearing kit) states that it's best to run these motors max full oil at all times to insure oil reaching the IMS.

Frank996

Thanks for your answers... Highly apreciated as always

The DareDevil: 1) Why on earth would anyone come to Fribourg? 2) It's cold and foggy, but did drive to Lake Geneva this afternoon without any problems.

One note: If you are driving here beware of speed cameras. They are everywhere and the fine will reach you eventually. I was clocked in at 132 km/h in a 120km/h zone, got 6km/h "discount" so 126km/h and cost me CHF 60 :-( Even 1km/h too fast will get you a payment demand from the police so be carefull... Also, gps with speed camera indicators are illigal and there is no mercy if caught. And, last but not least I went across the boarder in Geneva and was singled out because of the car at customs (the Swiss side) and my car is with Swiss plates...

Frank996

@Imo000: I have checked the dip-stick but can't really get anything from it tbh. The oil is clear to light golden in colour and I can't really see where on the orange markers it is at, if it makes sense? When drying with some kitchen towels there is defo oil on it...

And type of oil anyone?

Sneaky Pete

Without getting into a oil thread I use fully synthetic and currently 5W-40. Alot of us use that weight but others will use 0-40 and ......

The DareDevil

I may rent a car, but the train system is fantastic! I'll start in Zurich and end up in Geneva on Wednesday.

Sent you a private message.

alpine003

This is moot point unless you are using one of the aftermarket IMS that has an open design.

Imo000

On the contrary, even the sealed bearings should be submerged if possible.

Ahsai

Exactly because the fresh oil will seep thru the seal anyway.

alpine003

Yes in theory but how much of oil actually gets through the seals assuming all the grease has leaked out and the seal has been compromised in the first place?

Obviously we should all keep our fluids topped up but I haven't seen any comprehensive evidence to indicate whether it will or how long it will help for. I mean at what point does the oil not get to the IMS? Anyone know?

Imo000

Since the theory is that the oil leaks out of the bearing when the engine sits for a while, they keeping is submurged will stop this. It makes sense to me.