Toby, Looking at your posts, your car is a 92 or 93 isn't it? No dry sump, no Apollo, no Accusump, no anti-cavitation, etc, etc? If so, check it cold. If someone has changed your original yellow notched dipstick for a newer one, just fill sump with the recommended amount, dip it cold, and mark the level. That is then your cold level henceforth. Back in 1999 when this confusion started I emailed CC for clarification: Q: Is it true that you now recommend checking oil level on a K-series with the engine running and is this applicable to a 1994 Supersport? Mine has a yellow plastic dipstick with a notch cut in the side which I assume is the correct level? A: Jerry, you only need to check the oil with the engine running if you have an anti cav tank fitted to your car. Otherwise, you'll be fine.