Checking your oil pressure light involves understanding what the light means and knowing the crucial steps to take if it illuminates while driving. It also includes a basic check to ensure the light itself is functioning correctly.
The oil pressure light is a critical indicator on your dashboard. It doesn't simply mean your oil level is low (though that can be a cause); rather, it signals a problem with the oil pressure within your engine. Low oil pressure can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed immediately.
Understanding the Oil Pressure Light
This light typically looks like an old oil can with a drip. When it's on while the engine is running, it indicates that the oil is not circulating correctly at the necessary pressure to lubricate engine components. This requires immediate attention.
Checking the Light's Function
A basic check to ensure the oil pressure light is working is part of your vehicle's system self-check.
- When you turn your ignition key to the "On" position (before starting the engine), most warning lights, including the oil pressure light, should illuminate briefly.
- This brief illumination confirms that the light bulb and circuit are functional.
- The light should then turn off once the engine starts and builds proper oil pressure.
- If the light does not come on during this initial check, there might be an issue with the light itself or its circuitry, which should be investigated.
What to Do When the Oil Pressure Light Illuminates While Driving
If your oil pressure warning light comes on while you are driving, it's a serious signal that requires immediate action to prevent potentially catastrophic engine damage. According to expert advice, you must follow these critical steps:
Immediate Action
- Switch on your vehicle's emergency lights and pull over to a safe place. Continuing to drive with the light on can cause irreparable harm to the engine very quickly. Find a safe spot off the road as soon as possible.
- Make sure your car has cooled down before proceeding. Hot engine parts can cause burns. Allowing the engine to cool for 10-15 minutes before checking the oil level is a necessary safety precaution.
Check Oil Level Using the Dipstick Test
Once your vehicle is safely stopped and has cooled down sufficiently:
- Check the oil level using the dipstick test.
- Locate your engine's dipstick (usually a yellow or orange loop or handle).
- Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel.
- Reinsert the dipstick fully into its tube.
- Remove it again and check the oil level indicated between the "Min" (or "Add") and "Max" (or "Full") marks on the dipstick.
What the Dipstick Test Tells You
- Oil Level is Low: If the oil level is below the "Min" mark, this is likely the cause of the low oil pressure. You will need to add the correct type and amount of oil to bring the level up to the "Max" mark. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct oil type and capacity.
- Oil Level is Okay: If the oil level is at or near the "Max" mark, the low oil pressure is caused by something other than low oil level (e.g., a failing oil pump, a clogged oil passage, or a faulty sensor). In this case, adding oil will not fix the problem.
Summary of Steps When Light Comes On
| Step | Action | Why It's Important |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Pull Over Safely | Immediately stop driving and move off the road. | Prevents further engine damage. |
| 2. Allow Cooling | Let the engine cool down for 10-15 minutes. | Prevents burns from hot engine components. |
| 3. Check Dipstick | Locate, clean, reinsert, and check the oil level on the dipstick. | Determines if low oil level is the cause. |
Next Steps
If the oil level was low and you add oil, start the engine and see if the light turns off. If it does, the issue was likely low oil level. However, you should still investigate why the level was low (e.g., leaks, burning oil).
If the light remains on after adding oil (or if the level was already full), do not drive the vehicle. Low oil pressure will rapidly damage the engine. You will need to have the vehicle towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
Ignoring the oil pressure light can lead to costly engine failure. Always address it promptly and safely.
