8-8.5 qts.

Start checking the dipstick @ 8 qts. and again after your first drive.

 

Good for you! DIY oil changes are the best!

 

Walmart has great price for Mobil1 0W40, especially if you can get the 5qt container

 

Join the Mobil One club and get about $1 per quart rebate. You have to buy in multiples of 6 quarts though.

 

Somewhat related since I just bought a '99 C280... I checked the dipstick and noticed the oil reached a few mm above the MAX line. Should I siphon some oil out or should I not worry about it? The oil was still clean and the car was just serviced less than three months ago so I don't feel the need to do a full oil change.

 

Was that with the engine hot or cold?

 

Warm/Hot. I waited about 15-20 minutes after driving at normal operating temps.

 

If it is high when engine is cold, siphon it down. Develop a routine for checking the oil with car in level place and after cool down.

 

Just a follow up, it's been over a week since I changed the oil and it only really needed 7 quarts. I probably could have put in 8 with no problems but at 7 it's right in the middle on the dipstick.

 

7 or 7.5 qts is about right. It really depends on how long you let the old oil drain. Full 8 qts will normally be too much. To be safe, go with 7, drive for a week and then check and adjust as needed.

Georj

 

1998-2000 C280s all have the same M112.92 engines.

Oil capacity is 7.8 liters or 8 1/4 quarts. With a new oil filter and depending on well it has been drained, you'll need 8+ quarts. Just go by the dipstick and try and be consistent in when (overnight) and where (on level spot) you check.

 

Glen, The specs are probably right and I am not disputing it. But as you and I have hit the nail on the head: "It is how well you drain out the old oil".

You definitely do not want to over fill.

Just two weeks back I did an oil change on my 1999 C280 at my friendly indy. In our conversation we lost track and put full 8 Qt. Guess what? It is over the full mark on the dip stick.

Therefore, it is prudent to go slow and you can always add on later.

Goerj