I've searched this and the bimmer sites, but I can't find much consensus on the proper procedure for checking oil level for synthetic oil, like Mobile 1 0W-40.

The common procedure is:

1. Run car to operatering temperature.
2. Turn off engine, and wait 5 minutes on level ground.
3. Clean off oil dip stick. Insert stick for 3 seconds, and remove for a reading.
4. Half-way between mark is best.

But, I've read that synthetic clings to the innards of the engine too well, so one must wait longer before checking the level. I've seen people suggesting waiting until next morning! What do you think? For synthetic oil, should I wait longer?

Instead of going through all the hoopla, why don't you check it before running the engine?
Regardless, the amount left clinging to the engine after 5 minutes would not make any difference anyway.

Just check it when the cars warm on level ground, thats it. It's not rocket science as long as it is between the marks.

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2016 Corvette Stingray 2LT
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200

And it all came back.........but one table spoon.
Remember that cooking oil commercial?
Check your oil on level ground, first thing in the morning or a few minutes after shut-down.
The correct level is between the two marks on the dipstick, as you said.

__________________
2007 C 230 Sport.

What a question.

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N. Hodges
1994 S350
1987 300 SDL (for sale)

Nothing wrong with the question, jasp, other than Mobile being a city in Alabama.

I have heard the same as you that synthetics should be left to drain back longer. I usually check my oil in the morning before I start the car and so it is done at the same inclination, etc. Of course, when traveling I can't do this, so I just wait as long as possible after shutting off the motor. My engine doesn't use any oil (knock on wood) so I've never had a problem.

What you might do is test it. See if there is an appreciable difference between first-thing-in-the-morning and 5-minutes-hot. If there is, just make the adjustment, assuming the morning check is more accurate.

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Steve

1992 300CE Sportline Sophie
1990 300E Emma - in the family
1979 240D Josephine - sold, but not forgotten
2004 Pacifica AWD

http://web.mac.com/dakota/Mercedes/Home.html

Checking the oil is the simplest of tasks: The tendency to over analyze is epidemic here: Shut off the engine with the car on a reasonably level spot, raise the hood, wait two minutes (with a warm engine), pull the dip stick, wipe it down, put it back, wait 5/10 seconds, pull it out again and read it.
If the level is between the marks, put it back and drive on. If the level is at the minimum mark add 1 quart and recheck as above. Add oil only when the level is at the minimum mark. Thats all. Synthetic or dino no difference.

__________________
N. Hodges
1994 S350
1987 300 SDL (for sale)