I Checked my oil last weekend after driving then waiting 2-3mins I looked at the level it was fine, maybe 1/8 below the max fill line on the front, and on the backside it was at the fill line

the next day I changed the oil and only got 4qts out,

so my question is, is it better to check the oil first thing in the morning before i drive, or after I drive

thanks for your help

 

I figured it is because of oil still in the oil filter making up some of the difference maybe 1/2qt, and the rest lubricating the engine

I am not worried since it always shows full when I check the oil,

but I had never noticed it before, I usually just left the oil the drain pan and took it all to be recycled, but this last time I put my used oil back in containers

so I thought I would ask

 

you want to run it and let it sit a couple minutes just like you did. First thing in the morning it will check high and checking it right after shutting it off will show low.