24 May, 2023
Your vehicle’s dashboard has a series of warning lights, including an oil pressure light that illuminates when the oil pressure is low. If your oil light comes on, it can be a bit of a panic, especially if you’re a new driver. What does the oil light coming on mean? Why is the oil light on? Is it safe to drive my car with the oil light on? In this article, we will answer all of these questions and advise you on what to do when the oil light comes on.
To make this quick, the answer is NO. It’s not safe to drive with the oil light on. Continuing to drive with the oil light on can cause serious engine damage and even an accident if your vehicle suddenly stops as a result of engine failure. The main role of engine oil is to lubricate moving parts, thereby reducing friction. If there is not enough oil, the engine components may not receive proper lubrication, resulting in increased friction, heat, and potential damage. If the oil light comes on, it’s advisable to pull over safely and check the oil level. If it’s significantly low, add more oil according to your vehicle’s specifications. Even if the light goes off after you’ve added oil, it’s still advisable to call a trusted auto repair shop to inspect your vehicle and provide you with recommendations.
The oil light will illuminate whenever the oil drops below the minimum required level. Just like other fluids that keep your car healthy, the oil level will decrease over time.
This problem is directly related to low oil level. When the oil level drops below the recommended level, the oil pump won’t circulate enough oil to keep the moving parts lubricated.
The oil pump circulates oil throughout the engine, and oil pump failure will lead to reduced oil pressure. A faulty oil pump is commonly accompanied by increased engine temperature and noise from the valve train.
As the name suggests, an oil pressure sensor is a device that monitors an engine’s oil pressure. If this device malfunctions, it may give inaccurate readings and falsely indicate low oil pressure.
A clogged oil filter can restrict the flow of oil, leading to decreased oil pressure. Many manufacturers recommend that the oil filter be replaced every second time you get an oil change.
It is not advisable to drive with the oil light on for an extended period. If you’re driving on the highway, it’s best to find a safe place to stop and have your car checked out. As we’ve already mentioned, driving with the oil light on can result in severe engine damage, so it’s best to avoid it if possible.
Has your oil light come on and you’re looking for a trusted auto repair shop to diagnose the problem? Look no further than Chloe’s Auto Repair. We are a reputable auto repair shop offering a comprehensive range of auto repair services, including check engine light, engine repair and diagnostics, oil change, radiator repair, and more.
