Pic. 117. Location of the oil dipstick on a 2.3 liter engine (208D, 308D, 408D) | Pic. 118. Location of the oil dipstick (1) and lids (2) oil filler neck on a 2.9 liter engine (212D, 313D, 412D) |
It is best to check the oil level every time you fill up. The oil dipstick, as you know, is located in front of the engine on the side. On fig. 117 and 118 show the location of the probe on both types of engines.
Checking the engine oil level is done as follows:
- park the car on a level surface;
- after stopping the engine, wait at least 5 minutes for the oil to drain into the crankcase. It is better to check the oil level before driving on a still cold engine;
- remove the dipstick - be careful when the engine is hot! Wipe it with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Insert back until it stops, wait a bit and remove again;
- You can tell the oil level from the scale on the dipstick. If it is between two divisions, everything is in order;
- if the level does not reach the lower division or the oil level control lamp is on, you need to add oil.
The volume of oil between the lower and upper divisions of the dipstick corresponds to 2 liters. Thus, if the oil level is in the lower third of the scale or the control lamp is on, it is convenient to use a one-liter canister for topping up. When topping up from a five-liter canister, use a funnel. Oil is poured through the neck in the head cover of the engine block.
With a calm driving style, the oil level may be in the lower third of the scale. When actively driving or towing a trailer, it is recommended to keep the oil level closer to the upper division. With a larger volume, the oil cools the engine better.
Do not add too much oil. The oil level must not exceed the MAX mark on the dipstick. Therefore, it is better not to try to fill in the oil exactly to the top division. Excess oil is consumed faster and contributes to excessive carbon formation.
Note. Oil dipsticks of different engines differ and are not interchangeable. Therefore, if you need to replace the probe, pay attention to the type of engine. Oil dipstick knobs are color coded.
Can oil be mixed?
Brands of oils from different manufacturers can be mixed without any danger, this also applies to seasonal and multigrade oils. Such compatibility without harmful effects is a basic requirement of international standards. The specific characteristics of individual brands of oils may vary slightly when blended, as each brand uses a different combination of additives. However, the basic characteristics of the lubricant are not affected.
The exception is some synthetic and semi-synthetic oils, which, moreover, are not listed as recommended for use by Mercedes. If they are mixed with engine oil, they may create an unsuitable combination that can cause engine damage.