Can't remember my 997 but on my current 996, I turn the key in the morning, the measurement process starts and I get a reading in 4-5 seconds.

 

997.2 needs to be hot and while engine running. but once up to proper temps, its only a matter of seconds for the car to review how much oil it has.

If it's low or feels lower than what you're comfortable with - top 'er off.

 

Straight from the owners manual:
Conditions for measuring the oil level






1. Vehicle stationary.


2. It is important to ensure that the vehicle is




horizontal for correct oil level measurement






to occur.


3. Engine must be at operating temperature


(at least 140 °F/60 °C).


4. Engine must be idling.


Initiating oil level measurement






1. Push operating lever forward in order to switch


on the selection field.


2. Select “OIL” with the operating lever.


3. Push operating lever forward. Measurement is


started.


4. Allow waiting time to elapse.


5. Once the measurement has been completed,


you can read off the engine oil level on the


segment display.