I hope this is the right thread to raise my inquiry here after I have search through F&F section.

Would like to ask SIFUsss here... What is the right procedure to check the engine oil level (by checking the dipstick)?  Or should I say when is the right time to check that?  Start or do not start the engine and check?  Cause I have this scenario :-

i. If the engine is off, I can't see any oil level when I take out the dipstick.

ii. If the engine is running, when I pull out the dipstick, I can see the engine oil level is near to the lowest level.

P/S - I am using fully syn engine oil and currently only clocks 5,500km.  By right it should able to sustain till 8,000km of mileage, at least.

Owhh I didn't know that term SS is Semi Syn, I mean 45% of lube remaining in the engine when reach 5k,
I wanna try 15w 40 castrol modern engine, but the foreman say scare later the oil drain very fast because its thinner.