When an oil light illuminates on your dashboard, it demands immediate attention. This small but crucial warning can be the difference between a minor fix and a catastrophic engine failure. Understanding what these lights mean and how to respond appropriately can save you from expensive repairs and keep you safe on the road.

Types Of Lights And What They Mean

Not all lights indicate the same problem. Modern vehicles typically have two different oil-related warning lights:

Red oil pressure light

• Appears as a red oil can symbol or “oil pressure” warning
• Indicates dangerously low pressure in your engine
• This is an EMERGENCY warning that requires immediate action
• Continuing to drive with this light on can cause severe engine damage within minutes

Yellow or amber oil level/change light

• Usually appears as a yellow/amber oil can symbol or text message
• Indicates either low lubricant level or that an oil change is due
• Less urgent than the red light but still requires prompt attention
• You can typically drive safely for a short distance with this warning

Immediate Actions For A Red Pressure Light

If the red pressure light comes on while driving, follow these critical steps:

1. Reduce engine load immediately
   • Take your foot off the accelerator
   • Avoid sudden braking or acceleration
2. Pull over safely
   • Signal and move to the shoulder or safe location as quickly as possible
   • Choose a level spot away from traffic
3. Turn off the engine
   • Once safely stopped, shut off your engine immediately
   • Every second your engine runs with low pressure risks serious damage
4. Wait a few minutes
   • Allow the engine to cool slightly
   • Give the lubricant time to settle in the pan
5. Check the level
   • Locate the dipstick (consult your owner’s manual if unsure)
   • Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel
   • Reinsert it fully, then remove again to check the level
   • The lubricant should be between the minimum and maximum marks

What To Do Based On What You Find

If oil level is very low or empty

• Do not restart your engine
• This confirms a serious lubricant loss issue (leak or consumption)
• Add the appropriate type if you have some available
• Even after adding lubricant, do not drive the vehicle
• Have your car towed to a service centre for inspection

If oil level appears normal

• This could indicate:
  • Pump failure
  • Clogged galleries or pickup tube
  • Pressure sensor malfunction
• Do not drive the vehicle
• Arrange for a tow to a qualified mechanic

If you see obvious leaks

• Look for puddles or drips under the vehicle
• If significant leakage is visible, do not drive
• Have your vehicle towed to avoid engine damage

How To Respond To A Yellow Oil Level/Change Light

The yellow light is less urgent but still requires attention:

1. Find a convenient time to stop
   • Unlike the red light, you don’t need to pull over immediately
   • Plan to check your lubricant at the next convenient stopping point
2. Check your level
   • Follow the same dipstick procedure described above
   • If the level is below the minimum mark, add lubricant to reach the proper level
3. Determine if it’s an oil change reminder
   • Check your vehicle’s maintenance records
   • Most vehicles need lubricant changes every 5,000-8,000 kilometres
   • Your owner’s manual will specify the recommended interval
4. Take appropriate action
   • If it’s just low, top up with the correct lubricant type and monitor for leaks
   • If it’s a change reminder, schedule service within the next week

Prevent Oil Light Emergencies

Regular maintenance can help prevent light emergencies:

• Check levels regularly
  • Make it a habit to check your oil level every 2-4 weeks
  • Always check before long trips
• Follow recommended oil change intervals
  • Adhere to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule
  • Consider more frequent changes for severe driving conditions
• Address small leaks promptly
  • Small spots under your car should not be ignored
  • Early intervention prevents bigger problems
• Use the correct lubricant type
  • Your owner’s manual specifies the right viscosity (e.g., 5W-30)
  • Using incorrect lubricant can affect pressure and engine protection

The Importance of Oil

Oil serves several critical functions in your engine:

• Lubrication: Reduces friction between moving parts
• Cooling: Helps dissipate heat from engine components
• Cleaning: Carries away contaminants to the filter
• Sealing: Helps create proper compression in cylinders

Without proper lubricant pressure and level, these functions fail, leading to rapid engine wear and potential failure.

When To Seek Professional Help

While adding lubricant can temporarily address a low level, certain situations require professional attention:

• Recurring light issues: Indicates an underlying problem
• Unusual noises: Knocking, ticking, or grinding sounds with the light
• Smoke from engine: Blue smoke often indicates lubricant burning
• Significant consumption: Needing to add oil frequently between changes
• Oil mixed with coolant: Milky appearance suggests serious internal issues

Know What To Do When Your Oil Light Comes On

The oil light is one of the most critical warning indicators in your vehicle. Knowing how to respond appropriately—especially distinguishing between the urgent red pressure light and the less critical yellow level/change light—can save your engine and prevent costly repairs.

Remember that the red pressure light requires immediate action. Never ignore it or continue driving, as engine damage can occur within minutes. The yellow level light indicates more time to respond, but it should still be addressed promptly.

By understanding these warnings and taking appropriate action, you can protect your vehicle’s engine and ensure your safety on the road.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.