On all my previous cars I've always checked the oil level with the engine cold and topped up to the max line if necessary (as per the user manuals for those cars).

I noticed when I took delivery (Dec 2022) of my Mazda 3 SkyactivX MHev (186PS UK spec) that the oil level was about mid way between the min and max holes of the dipstick.
9,000 miles on the clock now and still 3,500 until the next oil change and the level (with engine cold) is just above the minimum mark.
I've bought some of the correct grade oil (0W - 20 for this model) and was about to top it up when I thought I'd better check the user manual on how much was needed to get it from the minimum mark to the max (states 1 Litre)
Much to my surprise it says in the manual that in order to check the oil you should run the engine up to operating temperatue and then let it rest for at least 5 minutes before checking the level. If I do that then the level is about 1/3rd of the way up from the minimum.

So my question is do I check it cold or Hot?

 

The dip stick reading for most newer Mazda's and predominately Skyactiv engines N/A or Trurbocharged. , first .....wipe your mind of everything you were once taught about reading an engine oil dipstickl.


On the Skyactiv engine the oil is the CORRECT oil level amount when it is between the lower and top line.

I do not really recommend topping it off unless you are willing to do all the work to get it exactly there. While *a little over wont hurt you might as well do it right the first time?

You must first run the engine to operating temperature so that the oil will do expanding and then with engine off for about 10-20 minutes check the oil.
(operating temperature is when the coolant had reach 180F-190F degrees which takes on average 5-7 minutes in most temperatures ambient between 60F-80F ambient).

Or early in the morning before the sun or the temperature exceeds 70F ambient check the oil. The level should be about 1/16 below the top mark.


Anything else is internet or DIY, bogus wisdom but can create threads pages long and debates from every sector of experience.
*I have had the oil pans off both several 2.0 and 2.5 and automatics I know what in there and the biggest thing that many do not take in account is the balance shaft assembly.

ASE

 

I painted my dipstick RED as a visual aide when I respond on forums because this question about how to check oil level is frequently asked and misunderstood on MAZDA forums how to correctly do the simple procedure



Use a paper towel or clean rag to completely wipe cleaned and dry of any oil residue before reinstalling dipstick to check the oil level

Skyactiv engine gasoline. The 2 holes are the indicators of the CORRECT oil level. You can safely run the oil level anywhere in between these 2 holes or if your oil dipstick has lines.



This is the incorrect position for checking the oil level.
Make sure that the oil ring is in good condition. The dipstick should need a good push when installing indicating a proper seal.



Make sure the dip stick is complete installed for checking oil on dipstick



Push the dipstick completely into the valve cover and quickly remove it.
This is full and within normal oil operating capacity range
This is my oil level at full capacity with the engine at rest for about an hour and still registering approx.. 100F at the oil pan. Measure with a handheld digital thermometer.

 

Thanks for the info, I've followed your procedure and now have the level at about 1mm less than you have in the above picture.
Oil is due to be changed in a few months (first service).

Does your Mazda use much oil between services?

My previous 2 cars (Fords) never used a drop. This is my first Mazda, so was a bit surprised it had dropped from approx. 1/2 full to nearly minimum in 9000 miles.
Manual does state it may use more during the runnning in period (which I did do carefully) but then again so did the Ford manuals.

 

Your welcome.

I change my oil every 3k miles and it never burns any oil. I can see by looking at the spark plugs, tail pipe, AFR, ignition timing, knock values and naturally the oil dip stick level. I think for DIY the tail pipe would be a fast indicator of oil burning that is the easiest to see?