Oil level and '02 C230
 

Okay I did some testing on the electronic measurment system of the MB C230, '02. I figured since I own a Topsider it would be no problem draining off extra oil. First, I used the dipstick and saw that the level was not up to the full lefel; however, the computer stated that the oil level was okay. I therefore, added an extra quart of oil. The computer level still measured okay, buth the dipstick was up to the max level. What is the deal? To me, having an extra quart of oil in the engine is a big deal. How much tolerance does the computer have in measuring the oil. In my experience, the dipstick is still the most accuracte means of measuring the oil. I would like to hear other people's experience on this matter. After all, a quart is a big deal. If it is stating okay while an extra quart can be added, how low does it have to be before it states that it is low.

Regards,
John Cappuccilli

You said the oil level was below the full line when you added oil and that te oil level was up to the max level. Is the oil level over max on the dipstick or is it on the max line?

I can't answer the question about how accurate the sensor is, but I would say that when checking oil the old fashioned way, the official MB policy is that halfway between "full" and "1 quart low" is ideal. Some engines, like mine, will use oil at a high rate if I try to keep the level at the "full" mark, but if left to its own devices, once the level is at the midpoint, it'll stay there for the duration of a 3-5000 mile oil change interval.

Oil level
 

I guess it is safe to say that checking the oil with the dipstick is still the best way. I feel the computer does a great job telling you if you have to add oil, but I believe, and will, use the dipstick to see exactly where I am. When I bring my car in for my first service I am going to ask the shop manager about this. As I stated before, a one quart difference to me is significant. How do you all feel. How many use the dipstick in addition to the computer?

John

Any time you check the oil level thru the instrument cluster(2000 & later) the car HAS to be driven & then in a checked when the car is LEVEL.
Adding oil is fine but remember to drive for a while before checking. On the W203 chassis there isn't any dipstick & the special factory tool costs around $150.

W203 oil dipstick
 

Thanks everyone.
Is there any other way to get an oil dipstick for W203 chassis? $150.00 seems a bit stiff.
Or does anyone know the part number for the special factory tool.

OIL level dipstick number is 120-589-06-21-00, HOWEVER you must know what engine that your car has as the dipstick is graduated in MM. That level info is only in WIS.

I can't believe that MB makes it so tough for folks that want to see oil on a dipstick. Don't know about you guys, but I use the dipstick for other things, too. (Like whipping the magpies in the yard...just kidding) I like to SEE the oil. I can judge it's colour and condition and look for things like coolant.

Are people really "done" with the oil level dipstick?

I don't have my new C220 yet. Is the dipstick tube still there? How does this new dipstick work? What do you mean by WIS?

Opps I mean't C230 Kompressor

Our '01 W210 has an engine oil dipstick, but the '02 W203 has only a tube with a cap on it. I've tried the obvious experiment - use the W210 dipstick on the W203, but it is too short (now that would have been TOO easy!).

Of course, neither has a transmission dipstick.

A great aftermarket opportunity for someone. Manufacture M-B dipsticks and sell them for $20 each.