You might consider checking a similar car on the dealer's lot so you can prove this is not normal. I suspect no serious engine damage will result in such a short time, but who wants to take the risk? If the check valve is in the base of the oil filter mount, it could be stuck open. A loose or cracked oil pickup tube will also allow oil to drain down. The pump will have to run long enough to catch a prime before it starts to pump oil under pressure. Either of these causes would be uncommon, but so is the symptom.
Caradiodoc
Thursday, April 8th, 2010 AT 5:57 PM