ALT-6 What to do when your Oil Light comes on
The oil light is one of your vehicle's most important warning lights. It usually illuminates when oil pressure drops to low levels. In some modern vehicles, the oil light can signify other problems so you should consult your owner's manual to be sure of what can trigger it.
If your oil light comes on while driving, you should pull over immediately, turn off your engine, and try to determine what has caused your oil pressure to drop.
There are many problems that can cause low oil pressure, such as:
1. A clogged oil filter2. A missing oil plan plug3. A leak in the oiling system4. A blown piston ring or head gasket5. A failing or non-functional oil pump
Some of these problems can be easily remedied while others will require the expert care of an auto mechanic.
First off, you should visually check to see if you have an oil leak or not. This can be accomplished by simply looking at the engine compartment and the underside of your engine.
Is oil dripping from the bottom of the engine?Is there oil spray all over the engine compartment?
If this is the case, it is likely that you have a problem that can't be fixed while parked on the side of a road. Simply call a tow truck and have your vehicle taken to a certified mechanic for repair.
Is the oil pan plug missing?
If this is the case, you may be able to stop up or seal the hole with something. You can then add oil and drive yourself to the nearest service station to replace the missing plug.
A missing oil pan plug is not an uncommon scenario. During routine oil changes, oil pan plugs are not always properly tightened, and engine vibrations can cause them to come loose and fall out while driving.
Now in many situations, you will not be able to determine what triggered your oil warning light. If this is the case and you wish to continue driving, you should proceed to check your oil level.
This is done by reading your oil dipstick, which is normally located in the engine compartment. Pull it out, wipe it clean and reinsert it. Then pull it out again and look at the markings on it. Most oil dipsticks have markings that indicate low and full oil levels.
If your oil level is above the low mark, it is probably safe to continue driving. Just add some oil (you do carry some quarts of oil in your trunk, right?) and have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
If your oil level is below the low mark, you should not drive any further. An engine needs oil for lubrication and cooling. Driving with insufficient oil pressure can cause serious damage to your engine. In this situation, it is better to play it safe. Have your vehicle towed to a certified mechanic who can diagnose the problem.
Here is a tip that could help you out in a desperate situation:
It is possible to drive a vehicle for a short time with no oil in the engine. This can only be done though if you have used an oil additive, such as DuraLube or Restore, in advance. These products chemically bond to the internal parts of your engine and are thus able to provide lubrication and cooling even if no oil is present.
With the help of these advanced oil additives, you could drive a bit further and possibly reach a service station but I do not recommend attempting this unless you are in really dire circumstances.
Hopefully, you will never be stranded on the side of a road due to an oil problem. Check your oil levels once a week and have your vehicle serviced regularly. This should keep you from ever seeing your oil warning light.
Happy Motoring!
