Why is the dipstick showing low oil level but the engine has 3 litres of oil stored?

2007 VAUXHALL ASTRA
61,000 MILES
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NIMESHPATEL1
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
The dipstick was bone dry when i checked it the other day. Today the mechanic drained 3 litres of oil out of the car. Why was the dipstick dry even though there was 3 litres of oil in the car. I checked the dipstick in the morning before car was driven on a level surface.
Aug 10, 2012 at 6:53 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
could be the wrong dipstick, tube may have moved out or the return holes are clogged and oil is in the upper end

Roy
Aug 10, 2012 at 7:19 AM
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KHLOW2008
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 41,814 POSTS
What is the recommended oil quantity for drain and fill?
Aug 10, 2012 at 7:47 AM
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