I think I'm burning excessive oil but not sure how much...

I know the Z holds 5 quarts but how can I tell how much is used from the dipstick? How much oil is still in the engine when the dipstick reads 'L'
Or how much have I lost if i read halfway between L & H??

TIA

Paul

 

As far as i know, its almost like a guessing game. If you are low, try putting in like half a quart and then check it again after a little while and see where you are. Do you smell oil burning from the engine or is your exhaust colored? You may have a small leak or something which I would more concerned with.

 

After doing an oil change and adding 5qts, my dipstick reads H. Between H and L is 1 qt of oil so you can easily tell how much you are losing.

My advice is to check the oil first thing in the morning before you start the car. I know you're supposed to check when its warm, but the cold reading is close enough(and much easier to check).