Mercedes-Benz Check Engine Oil at Next Refueling
The “check engine oil next refueling” message on a Mercedes-Benz vehicle indicates that the engine oil level is low and needs refilled. This message appears in the instrument cluster when the onboard computer, known as the Engine Control Module (ECM), detects that the oil level is below the minimum level required for safe operation. The ECM monitors the engine oil level in real time and sends this message as a reminder to add oil before the next refueling. Failing to add oil can cause damage to the engine, so it’s important to check the oil level regularly and top it off as needed. To reset the message, add oil to the engine until the oil level is back within the correct range, then drive the vehicle for a few minutes to allow the ECM to re-check the oil level.
If check engine oil at the next refueling comes up, it is strongly recommended to add at least two quarts of oil as soon as possible. The recommended oil to add is Mobil1 0W-40, which is unavailable at most gas stations. If 0W-40 is not available, use 5W40. As a last resort, use full synthetic 5W-30 and change the engine oil to the recommended viscosity in the next couple of weeks.
Recommended Synthetic Engine Oils for Mercedes-Benz Vehicles
Sheet 229.1
- Castrol Syntec 5w-50
- Castrol Syntec 10W-40
- Mobil 1 Tri-Synthetic Formula 15w-50
- Mobil 1 Tri-Synthetic Formula 0w-40
- Valvoline Synpower Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5w-40
- Quaker State Full Synthetic European Formula 5w-40
- Pennzoil Synthetic European 5w-40
- 76 Pure Synthetic Motor Oil 5w-40
Sheet 229.3
- Shell Helix Ultra 5w-30
- Shell Helix Ultra 5w-40
- Castrol TXT Softec Plus 5w-30
What does Check Engine Oil at Next Refueling mean?
When Check Engine Oil at Next Refueling or Check Engine Oil Level message shows up on the instrument cluster, it means that the oil level in the engine is below the minimum level. Ignoring this warning for an extended time can lead to permanent and expensive engine damage. This warning light means that you need to add engine oil to the engine.
Why does Check Engine Oil At Next Refueling come up?
The most common reasons why checking engine oil level at the next refueling comes up are:
- The engine is burning oil
- Engine oil leaks
- Blown head gasket
- The oil cooler seal is leaking
- Not enough oil was added at the last oil change
On higher mileage Mercedes-Benz, due to engine wear, we often see engines burn about 1/2 quarts for every 1000 miles. If you see this error message after an oil change, the service station may not have added enough engine oil.
Can I drive with the check engine oil light on?
It is not recommended to drive a vehicle with the check engine oil light on as it can cause serious damage to the engine. The check engine oil light warns that the engine oil level is low and needs refilled. Driving with low oil levels can cause friction and excessive heat in the engine, leading to severe damage or even complete engine failure. If the check engine oil light is illuminated, you should add oil to the engine as soon as possible or have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the issue. In some cases, the check engine oil light may be caused by a sensor malfunction, so a professional must inspect the vehicle to ensure that the oil level is correct and there are no other underlying issues.
If the RED oil light comes on, do not drive; pull over immediately and turn off the engine. Add more oil to the engine before you resume the road trip. The best thing to do is to stop at a gas station and add two quarts (about two liters). Adding two quarts should eliminate the warning message of the Mercedes-Benz Check Engine Oil at the Next Refueling.
The gas station or auto parts store may not have the recommended oil, but adding 5W-30 full synthetic oil in most cases should be OK. If you mix oil grades, it is recommended to get an oil change in the next week and use the recommended oil.
How to add engine oil to a Mercedes-Benz engine?
- Let the engine cool down for about 10-15 minutes.
- Open the oil cap and pour in 1 quart of engine oil. Use the oil recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer.
- Check the oil level on the dipstick. The two dots on the tip of the dipstick indicates the minimum and maximum level.
- Add engine oil again and set the oil level to the maximum level. Make sure only to use approved oil. Most Mercedes-Benz requires Mobil1 0W-40 full synthetic, but other approved oils can also be used. See the owner’s manual to find your vehicle’s recommended oil.
- Place the oil cap back into the engine.
- Start the engine and ensure that check engine oil is at the next refueling diapers.
Do I check the oil with the engine running?
No. You need to turn off the engine. Wait at least 15 minutes, then check the engine oil.
Can you check the Mercedes-Benz oil level after driving?
Yes, but you need to turn off the engine, wait for 15 minutes, then check the engine oil level with the engine off. What should I do if I need to check the engine oil before refueling? Turn off the engine. Wait at least 15 minutes. Then check the engine oil level with the engine off. If the oil level is below the minimum mark, add more oil.
My Mercedes-Benz doesn’t have a dipstick.
If your Mercedes-Benz is not equipped with a dipstick, you will need to check the oil level using the buttons on the steering wheel. The oil level is checked using the oil sensor, and the oil level is displayed on the instrument cluster.
- If your Mercedes-Benz does not have a dipstick, you can check the engine oil level using the onboard computer system. Here are the steps:
- Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle
Press the “Menu” button on the dashboard and navigate to the “Vehicle Information” or “Service” section. - Select “Engine Oil Level” or “Engine Oil Level Display.”
The computer will display the current oil level and let you know if it is low and needs to be refilled.
If the oil level is low, you will need to add oil to the engine to bring it back up to the correct level. You can purchase oil recommended by Mercedes-Benz and add it to the engine through the oil filler cap, usually located on the top of the engine. Make sure to check the oil level after adding oil and take the vehicle for a short drive to allow the computer to re-check the oil level. If you have any doubts or difficulties with checking the oil level, it is best to seek help from a professional mechanic.
Why does my engine oil level drop after one week?
If the oil level drops after about a week, this is NOT normal. The engine is either leaking or burning oil. These problems are caused by a bad seal or head gasket. Have an auto mechanic perform engine checks.
We hope you find the Mercedes-Benz Check Engine Oil at Next Refueling guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Mercedes-Benz.
Good day, change my engine oil about two months ago( Mercedes C350 2008 model) and now is displaying check engine oil at next refueling. No obvious oil leakage noticed, no smoking. Please what’s the likely problem and how do I go about it to avoid reoccurrence. Thank you.
First, it may have been low from the begging, meaning not enough oil was added. If that is not the case, it may have a leak that you have not seen yet or it is burning oil.