The dashboard of a car serves as a visual display of all of the important systems that keep the car running smoothly. When you see the dashboard oil light come on, it typically means that there is an issue with the oil in your car. The engine oil light is definitely not something that you should ignore!
What Does the Oil Light Mean?
There are several possible reasons for the oil pressure light to illuminate. The most common include:
- The oil is low
- The oil pump is faulty
- The oil sensor is faulty
Why is My Oil Light On?
If the check oil light suddenly comes on as you are driving down the road, find a safe place to pull over and turn off the engine. Open the hood and use the dipstick to check the oil level in your car. Take a moment to look under the car for any signs of an oil leak. If there are no leaks, you may just need to add some oil. If the oil level is not low, then the oil indicator light may have been triggered by an issue with the oil pump and you may need a mechanic to check it out.
Checking for Low Oil
Engine oil is not designed to last forever in a vehicle. You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for regular maintenance on your vehicle, and this includes oil changes. The owner’s manual that came with your vehicle should include instructions for checking the oil when the oil light indicator comes on the dashboard. Simply pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and pull it out again. If the oil on the end of the stick when you pull it out the second time is below the add line, you may have a problem!
Checking for Dirty Oil
A check engine light does not always indicate low oil. The oil change indicator light may be on because the oil in the engine is too dirty or a sensor is malfunctioning. If the oil light comes on and off but the oil is full, it may be triggered by blockage from dirty or poorly circulating oil. Check the oil as you normally would and examine the dipstick for a dark color, odd smell, or sludgy thick oil.
If the oil change light in your car is on, it is time to contact Champs Family Automotive. We will determine the reason the oil sensor light is on in your car and take the necessary steps to resolve the issue.
