What It Means When Your Oil Light Comes On

If your oil light suddenly comes on while you're driving, don’t ignore it. That little red oil can icon is your engine’s way of crying for help.

Most of the time, this warning means one of two things:

• Your oil level is low
• Your oil pressure has dropped dangerously

Both situations can lead to serious engine damage if left unchecked.

What To Do Before Driving Further

Here’s what we recommend:

• Pull over safely and shut off the engine. Don’t keep driving just to “make it home.”
• Check your oil level with the dipstick if you're parked on level ground and the engine’s had a minute to cool.
• If the oil is low and you have the right type of oil, top it off before restarting your car.
• If the light stays on or you're not sure what’s causing it, get your vehicle checked right away.

Driving with low oil pressure can wreck your engine fast. It’s not something to wait on.

What Causes Low Oil Pressure?

Here are a few common reasons:

• A leak somewhere in the system
• A failing oil pump
• Extremely low oil levels from long intervals between oil changes
• Using the wrong oil type or viscosity for your engine

When To Call a Shop

If the oil light comes on and topping it off doesn’t fix it, call a mechanic. Continuing to drive could lead to engine failure.

Not sure what kind of oil your vehicle takes? Stop by or give us a call — we’re happy to help!

Why It Matters

At King’s Auto Center, we’d rather have you ask a quick question than end up needing an engine rebuild. Our team is always here to help you understand what your car’s telling you.