Overfilling engine oil - B7 Tdi

[rogermunns]

I am really finding my 2007 B7 DSG a challenge! It is a 140 bhp Tdi model, 71000miles. I have had the car for 2 years and have to say it's been the most disappointing of the 60+ cars I've owned (70 years old). So many little niggles.

I just did an engine oil and filter change. Not a difficult job, although the oil filter housing screw top is awkward to get out and then put back. But job done yesterday, no leaks.

As I did the change I allowed the engine to drain for over ½ an hour. The car had not run for about 24 hours before I undid the drain plug. I consulted the handbook and it said 4litres capacity, with filter change. I put in about 3½ litres. I finished and took the car out for 5 miles or so, returning home at night. On the run I noticed black smoke on hard acceleration, so thought the worst - overfilled!

Looking at the ridiculously marked dipstick I am pretty sure that I have overfilled. But how? The only thing I can think of is that I should have warmed the car up before I drained. But when I put the drain plug back, there was only 1 drip every 5 seconds coming out. I was pretty sure I would need to put in more oil and was shocked to see I have overfilled.
Any comments, please?

[JMR1]

According to your calculations, the book said 4 ltrs. inc filter, and you only put in 3.5 Ltrs..... this was without any filter change or with it, and did you add some oil to the filter ( is it a cartridge or disposable type? ) so according to that, you should not be all that much over the mark. After finishing the change, did you run the engine for a few minutes, then stop it and let it rest for 15-20 mins, and dip it again? This is the best way to check the oil level after a change, and to check for leaks as well, and not to drive it straight away. After every oil change I carry out on my own car, I always leave a few newspapers underneath as well while the engine is running, makes it easier to see if you have a leak.
As you pointed out yourself, changing oil in a cold engine is best avoided, even at the risk of handling hot oil. Did you drain some of the oil when you got back, and did this solve the smoking problem?

[Quatrelle]

Roger - black smoke is unburnt diesel. If it was oil it would be blue.

To check the ridiculous dipstick, do the usual 'remove, wipe, replace, remove' and then press it briefly on a piece of essuie-tout (kitchen paper to you and me!) folded in half a couple of times. After a few seconds it will become clear where the oil is on the dipstick.

[bakili]

Engine oil best is drained when is warm, as cold engine oil is thicker and will take forever to drain. Best way to check oil level according to owners manual is park car on level ground, switch engine off, wait couple minutes and check oil level.

[MDA123]

I've changed the oil and filter on my 140 TDI and without adding any oil to the (disposable) oil filter I poured in exactly 4 litres measured with a one-litre plastic bottle. After a short run I wiped the dipstick (yes it is ridiculous and much prefer the one in a Jetta) and it was right on the full mark - no problem.