[OUSooner]

2000 Xterra 6 Cyl 2WD.

Every time I check the oil, the oil on the dipstick is at a different level on each side of the marks.

Say I pull the dipstick out and wipe. Put it back in then pull it back out. The oil on one side of the marks says 1/2. If you look at the other side, it reads full.
So which is the correct reading?

Seems the mark is at 45 degree angle when it goes into the oil pan.

 

[beef tits]

I've never had good readings on mine. Unfortunately, this is just another design flaw. These trucks are cheap junk man, get used to it.

 

[Brokensandwich]

There doesn't seem to be a way to read the oil level. I want to 2 dealerships and asked the "experts" how to read the level. Best answer I got was if it's wet there's oil in it. How much? You'll have to guess.

 

[Bitumen Bullet]

The dipstick only appears to have been made to a low price point, it is actually a performance enhancement. It's light weight improves acceleration and fuel economy over the more traditional designs. Traditional designs that are easier to read and better reflect the quantity of oil in the engine but are too old and heavy for a performance machine like the Xterra.

As for which side is more accurate, I would suggest checking it after an oil change. Just be sure to drain as much oil as possible and measure the amount you put back in which I think is 3 liters, but check the manual.

Or just split the difference and know there is still some oil in there which should be good enough for an old Xterra.