It is important that you do not ignore the engine oil warning light, it may indicate that your car has insufficient oil or there is a problem with the vehicle’s oil pressure.
In this car maintenance guide, we explain why the engine oil warning light has come on and what you need to do to have it fixed by a mobile mechanic or a trusted local garage.
What is an oil warning light?
The oil warning light is a critical indicator on your vehicle’s dashboard that signals a problem with the engine’s oil system. Oil is a vital lubricating fluid for the car’s engine as it operates.
When the oil warning light is on, it will likely indicate a problem with one of the following:
- Oil pressure
- Oil level
- Oil circulation
There are several possible reasons why the oil warning light might come on.
- Low oil pressure, which means the engine may not be receiving enough oil to lubricate its internal components effectively
- Oil level is too low, this can cause damage and wear to the engine – and potentially other vital components.
- Faulty oil pump, causing the oil to circulate inadequately
- Faulty oil sensor, triggering a false warning
What should I do if the oil warning light comes on?
If the oil warning light comes on while you are driving, it is important to act quickly. You should pull over when it is safe to do so and turn off the engine.
Once the vehicle is stopped, allow the engine to cool down for at least 10 minutes before checking the oil level using the dipstick.
If the oil level is low, adding oil may resolve the issue. However, if the light remains on after adding oil, or if the level is already sufficient, it is best to call for roadside assistance.
Should the problem be severe, the vehicle may need to a garage.
What does the engine warning light look like?
This engine warning light typically appears as a red icon resembling an oil can with a single drip of fluid.
The oil warning light illuminates when the oil temperature becomes too high or when the oil level or pressure drops too low.
That is why it’s crucial to respond to this warning immediately.
Here is what the oil warning dashboard warning light will look like:
How long can you drive with an engine oil light on?
You should not drive with the engine oil light on. The light may indicate a serious problem with the engine, which will be made worse by continuing to use the vehicle.
Even driving for a few minutes can cause severe damage in many cases. If the light comes on, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and check the oil level.
Continuing to drive could lead to costly or irreparable engine failure.
It is important to change your car engine oil when required.
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Oil pressure warning light
The oil pressure warning light will illuminate red on the dashboard with the symbol of an oil can with a drop of fluid.
It is advisable to stop the vehicle as soon as possible and let the engine cool before carrying out any potential fixes to the issue.
Engine oil low sign
In the majority of vehicles, if the level of engine oil is too low, then the red oil can symbol will appear on the dashboard.
However, in some other vehicles, it will instead be yellow.
Here is what it might look like on your car dashboard:
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Why is my engine oil light flashing?
A flashing engine oil light appearing on your dashboard is a serious warning that should never be ignored.
If you see a flashing oil light, it often indicates a more urgent issue with the engine’s lubrication system.
This can include critically low oil pressure, low oil level, or a malfunctioning oil pump that is preventing oil from circulating properly through the engine.
If your engine oil light begins flashing, you should pull over and turn off the engine as soon as it is safe to do so.
Once the engine has cooled, check the oil level using the dipstick. The next step is to call for a mobile mechanic or have your vehicle towed to a trusted local garage.
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Book a diagnostic test with us today. RAC Mobile Mechanics will check your car for faults, talk you through any repairs you might need, and give you a report for your records.
