What does the engine oil indicator mean?
The oil warning light is one of the most commonly encountered warning lights on the dashboard and should never be ignored. When it illuminates it means that the engine has undergone an oil pressure drop. This can happen for a number of reasons but often because there's not enough oil in the reserve. Another possible cause is a faulty pump which could be preventing oil from circulating properly around the engine.
Why does my car need oil?
One small light may not look immediately serious, but it is actually incredibly dangerous. Internal combustion engines need an adequate supply of oil to lubricate their moving parts, without which damage can occur quickly. Even if the engine doesn't seize straight away, continuing to drive will cause increasing damage. The longer you drive the more extensive that damage will be and the costlier the repairs. Eventually your engine will seize completely - which can cause catastrophic damage and even precipitate a road accident. It could be curtains for your car or worse. Therefore, the best course of action for drivers when they see the oil light is to pull over immediately and seek professional assistance.
Check your oil levels regularly
The best remedy for oil problems, without doubt, is to avoid them. All drivers should check their oil level for themselves once per week using the vehicle's dipstick. Here is how.
Turn off the engine. Lift the bonnet, locate and pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag. Then re-immerse it in the oil, making sure it is fully inserted. Pull it out a second time and examine it. If the dipstick emerges dry or barely shows any oil, then the immediate problem is a depleted oil level. If the dipstick is amply covered in oil (there are maximum and minimum marks on the dipstick) the fault is more likely to be the pump or a blockage. Note that this test is best performed when the engine has had time to rest.
Never treat a low oil level as a minor concern. If you have a bottle of engine oil handy so much the better but if the light stays on the car is not safe to drive. Call a mechanic for help. They'll be able to top up your levels if that's the problem or tow you safely to the nearest garage for further attention.
Talk to the Protyre professionals
If you aren't comfortable beneath the bonnet a regular oil service from your local Protyre garage is your best policy. Our qualified fitters will also check for other problems while they are at it and there are no charges unless you need oil or replacement parts.
Oil maintenance and tyre condition are the two most important elements of car maintenance that you can easily have checked free of charge. Years of experience tell us that neglecting these maintenance areas is both unsafe and a leading cause of poor vehicle performance and fuel inefficiency. Regular oil checks and choosing quality tyres from reputable brands like Pirelli, Michelin or Falken will keep the vehicle on the road years longer.
Book with Protyre
If you'd like a free oil check or a general vehicle health check, you can book one direct through this website or visit any of our friendly local garages.
