Do what Honda recommends to get the most accurate reading. If you start it and then shut it off while cold you will get a much lower reading. Otherwise the reading should not vary too much and you shouldn't have any trouble keeping between the add and full line no matter when you check it. I have always checked the oil in my vehicles in the morning because the readings are more consistent.

piclistguy@yahoo.com wrote:
>
> I have a 97 Accord. The level on the dipstick reads differently if I
> check the oil in the morning when the engine is cold, then when its
> warm.
> Is it best to read the dipstick cold or when the engine is warm after
> driving?. If I read it cold, should I start and stop it first to
> distribute the oil a bit? Thanks