Oil not on dipstick.

1998 SATURN SC2
201,500 MILES
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TSTEFF63
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When I check my oil, I wipe the dipstick, place it in, pull out and check it. It seems empty or there is oil on the left and right edges near the bottom of the stick. If I turn the car on and pull it out, it has a good amount on there, if I wipe and recheck, it is empty with a bit of oil on the left and right edges again. Any suggestions? Started about a week ago.
I had my head gasket replaced about two months ago. Also replaced my Tensioner yesterday, my last had broke and I drove the car til I lost power in every part of the car, hoping this isn't affecting anything.
Apr 11, 2013 at 12:51 PM
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TSTEFF63
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I also hear a slight grinding sound, wondering if oil is not getting to certain areas. Unsure, could be unrelated.
Apr 11, 2013 at 12:52 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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You always check the oil with the car off if it doesn't read on the stick its at least. 2 QTS low.Fill the oil till its full.What model and year do you have?
Apr 12, 2013 at 7:33 AM
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TSTEFF63
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Saturn SC2, 1998. It does have more than enough oil in it, I'm not sure why it would do this. I am hoping that there is not an oil crack/leak somewhere. How could I check this?
Apr 12, 2013 at 10:18 AM
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SATURNTECH9
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So you ran the car out of oil till the engine died?
Apr 12, 2013 at 12:27 PM