engine oil dried up (1999 LE)

[toyotapad]

Hi,
I own Toyota corolla LE 1999 model. It has 131000 miles on it. I have never missed Oil change every 5000 miles. I have just about to cross 5000 miles from my next Oil change, but two days back while i was driving i saw Oil light blinking, i drove for about 2 miles to park. When i checked engine oil, it was completely dried up (stick was black and sticky). Immediately bought 5 quarts 5W30 Oil (High mileage) and filled up Engine right at walmart parking lot. Right now car is running without any problem.

I was wondering can anybody tell what might be the reasons for this dry up? Should i be concerned about the incident and have engine check done by mechanic immediately?

You know how car mechanic tries to scare you with this and that and have us spend lots of money. I would appreciate your input.

Thanks in advance.
TP

[stubborn1]

Chances are the car started burning or leaking oil and you didn't notice. Oil doesn't evaporate overnight. I would do a cylinder compression test if you can't find any leaking oil and suspect burning.

I hope you didn't add all 5 quarts without checking. When the oil light comes on and you can't see anything on the dipstick, you should be about 2 quarts low. (I know from experience on my 98).

Monitor for leaks and or oil burning. Check your oil every fill up or once a week.

[punter]

If you had the oil light flashing when you were driving, you have almost definatly done bearing damage.

If it was my engine, I would just watch the oil level carfully (don't let it get low at all) and wait and see if it devlops any noises.

[PaulG]

My 99 CE (~150k) has started leaking around the oil pan seal like a mad champion. Just started doing it over the last few changes. I plan on dropping the pan and reapplying the RTV this next change. Looks easy according to the Haynes manual. Might want to check it out on yours too - could be the source of your missing oil.

[toyomoho]

Don't panic. How often do you check the oil? Check for engine oil leaks with engine on/off. Put some cardboard under the car when parked and see if you are leaking oil. Recheck your dipstick to be sure you have the currect amount of oil, not too high/low. Start monitoring the dipstick to see if the oil quality drops over time. Carry a few quarts of oil with you.

Normally oil does not just flow out of the engine unless there is a major leak, one you can find if looking.

I think the oil pressure light comes on at 5psi. If the light comes on, stop the car (when safe) and add oil if necessary.