Therefore, it is important for drivers know why it has illuminated and what you should do next.
This car maintenance guide will explain all you need to know about your car’s oil warning light.
What is an oil warning light?
The oil warning light is a critical indicator on a 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.
This light typically appears as a red icon resembling an oil can with a single drip of fluid.
When illuminated, it means that something is wrong with the oil pressure, level, oil circulation within the engine.
There are several possible reasons why the oil warning light might come on. One of the most common causes is low oil pressure, which means the engine may not be receiving enough oil to lubricate its internal components effectively.
Proper oil lubrication prevents the engine’s metal components from rubbing together. Without it, the engine will quickly overheat or suffer serious wear and damage. If the oil pressure is low, it must be addressed immediately.
Another possibility is that the oil level is too low, which can again cause damage and wear to the engine – and potentially other vital components.
In some cases, the oil pump may not be functioning properly, causing oil to circulate inadequately.
Less frequently, a faulty oil sensor may be to blame, triggering a false warning. However, this can only be evaluated by an experienced mechanic.
This is why if the oil warning light comes on while you are driving, it is important to act quickly. You should pull over and turn off the engine as soon as it is safe to do so.
Once the vehicle is stopped, allow the engine to cool down 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 be towed to a mechanic.
What does it look like?
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 at all with the engine oil light on. This warning indicates low oil pressure or level, which means the engine may not be receiving proper lubrication.
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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