I have a 2003 2.2 Cavalier, and I noticed oil on my exhaust so I decided to check my oil level. I was worried when I first pulled the dipstick, there was no oil. So I re-wiped stuck the dipstick in, waited a few seconds and checked. Still no oil. I put the dipstick back and began checking for leaks. In the last three days I have had tires rotated, with a free fluid check. Changed my brakes, where I checked all fluids and neither time did the oil level come out low. After looking for leaks, which I could not find, I checked my oil level and this time it was overfilled according to the dipstick. I checked the oil again and it was about 1-1.5 quarts low. I could not count how many time I have checked the oil and each time I get different readings. What is going on?

not trying to ask a stupid question but are you checking your oil at different engine temps?

Not a stupid question. The engine hasn't been started since yesterday afternoon. The car is sitting on level ground. I have used high mileage full synthetic since I bought the car two years ago.

well... other then the obvious.. once the car has been sitting a hour or two, you'll get your accurate reading... It takes awhile before the oil settles back into the pan.. but it doesnt move once it does...

But if the car is sitting... and you keep checking the oil and getting different readings every time... you either:

a) are reading it wrong.... lol... sorry, but always a possibility.. especially since 5w30 synthetic is gonna be pretty thin and easier to misread

b) its something stupid like crap is wiping the dipstick as you pull it out or something...

Its a stick in oil.... there is nothing to break here, its as basic as it gets for measurement... If the level goes back and forth (not just one way) then its something stupid... not serious..

Normal is checking it and its low... then checking and its full..... If you come back and its low again, look down cuz its on your driveway... haha...