21/08/2026
I’d never overfill an engine with oil—and I wouldn't let a mate do it either. 🛢️⚠️
When people see their oil is a bit low, the most common DIY mistake is tipping the whole 5-litre bottle straight down the filler cap. But putting too much oil in your engine is just as bad as running it bone dry.
Here’s what actually happens when you overfill it:
Your crankshaft sits right above the oil sump. When there’s too much liquid in there, the metal crankshaft dips directly into the oil while spinning at thousands of RPMs. It whips the oil into a thick, frothy foam—just like a blender making a milkshake.
That foamy oil is full of air bubbles. Air bubbles can't build oil pressure, which means your engine's moving parts stop getting lubricated. On top of that, all that extra fluid builds up massive internal pressure, which blows out your expensive rubber engine seals and leaves oil leaking everywhere.
How to get it right:
Check your dipstick on flat ground when the engine is cool.
The gap between the MIN and MAX dots is usually only 1 Litre, not the whole bottle!
Add small splashes, wait a minute for it to settle, and re-check.
If you’ve accidentally poured in too much or you're not sure how to read your dipstick properly, don't start the car. Drop in or give us a call and we’ll help you drain it to the right level.
🔗 Tap the link to book in with the team!
https://ballaratroadworthy.com/
