Car trouble · Engine & check-engine light

My oil light is on

The red oil-can light means the engine may not be getting enough oil pressure. An engine can be ruined in minutes without it.

Stop driving it

Low oil pressure can destroy an engine in minutes. Pull over, shut it off, and check the oil — if it is full and the light stays on, get it towed.

A starting point, not a diagnosis. Most parts stores read check-engine codes and test batteries for free.

Likely causes — tick the parts you want

  1. Low engine oil

    most likely · Most people can do this

    How to check: Park on level ground, wait a few minutes, pull the dipstick, wipe it, push it back in and pull it again. Oil below the low mark or not on the stick at all means it needs oil now.

  2. A failing oil pressure sensor

    possible · A mechanic’s job

    How to check: If the oil is full, the engine sounds normal and the light flickers on and off, the sensor may be faulty — but have a mechanic test the real pressure before driving on it.

  3. A worn oil pump or internal engine wear

    less likely · A mechanic’s job

    How to check: If the oil is full and you hear ticking or knocking from the engine with the light on, shut it off. This needs a mechanic.

Be careful

The engine and exhaust stay hot for a while after shutting off — keep hands clear of them when checking the dipstick.

Your car — the counter needs this

If the counter doesn’t have a part, your shopper asks them to order it under your name and messages you the order number. When it comes in, send someone to collect it.

Not quite it?

My check engine light is flashingMy check engine light is onMy engine idles rough or shakesMy car hesitates when I accelerateI smell burning oilMy car is getting worse gas mileage
My oil light is on — likely causes and the parts · DriverRuns