An engine oil pressure warning light has come on – what does that mean? If you're faced with this issue, you'll probably be worried. 

What causes low oil pressure?

Ever wondered about what causes low oil pressure on diesel engines?

Well, low engine oil pressurecauses many, from poor quality oil to a worn engine. If your oil level drops below the minimum for your engine type and operating conditions, it's an indication of wear or damage. It can also cause problems with the internal components such as coolant and oil contamination. When it comes to car maintenance, low oil pressureis one of the most common issues contributing to breakdowns, as well as costlier maintenance expenses because it reduces the value of your car.

Symptoms and Causes of Low Engine Oil

If an engine oil pressure light comes on while driving, it means you are at risk of a low-pressure oil situation developing – this is not a good thing. A massive engine failure could occur if things go wrong. Bolting ahead is not a good option when an engine oil warning lighthas appeared – not unless you want to end up in a potentially dangerous crash. Below are some major causes and low engine oil symptomsthat can help you figure out things well.

1. Warning Light for Oil Pressure

Do you often have questions such as, “Can low oil cause check engine light to come on”? Then we would like to answer “YES”.

Your oil pressure sensor is designed to detect when the oil level begins to drop and trigger the illumination of your engine’s oil warning light. It's a good idea to check your oil levels before switching your car on, just to be on the safe side. If you experience a sudden drop in engine oil pressure, you may see a red engine oil warning light illuminate on your dashboard. This engine oil sign indicates you have an oil pressure sensor issue. If the issue occurs after driving for a while, it is likely related to the pressure sensor and not necessarily a larger problem with your vehicle.

2. Odour of burning oil

You may smell a burning oil smell when driving your car, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you need an oil change. A burning smell is typically an indicator that your engine needs more oil; however, if the smell persists for too long or when it does not go away after several minutes, check to see if there is a problem with your engine. A persistent drop in your engine oil indicator could increase wear and tear on engine parts, causing decreased performance and increased emissions. If you’re noticing the smell, pull over to safely check your vehicle’s oil level. There are many causes of oil leaks, like a broken oil pan gasket or faulty seals or gaskets, which could cause an oil leak that results in increased oil pressure and an increased burning smell.

3. Poorer Results

When it comes to your car and its performance, you want the oil level to be at or slightly beyond normal operating capacity. If the oil pressure is low, engine functionality will be reduced. This could lead to a short stoplight, or an eventual stall or shutdown. You may notice less horsepower or stalling when kick-starting the engine. And if you’re losing power when accelerating, then you’re experiencing diminishing vehicle performance.

4. Engine Overheating

Engine oil provides lubrication to the vital engine parts. A low engine oilpressure level can cause the engine to increase in wear, damage, and stress. Over time this will eventually lead to expensive repairs or even an engine breakdown altogether. If your car's engine is warm to the touch or smoking, you should check for a low water level or an engine oil leak, or contamination.

5. Unusual Noises

Your car's engine and other components rely on oil to lubricate its parts. When this oil becomes running low, the engine may not function properly and will begin making strange noises. If you noticesome low engine oil signs, like ifyour car's engine making an abnormal noise, there are a few things you can do. To keep your engine healthy, it's important to have regular engine oil checks and maintenance. Additionally, if every time you start your car the engine starts making noises or is harder to start than usual, something might be wrong with it and it's probably time for a new oil change.

WHAT CAUSES A DROP IN OIL PRESSURE?

Understanding the factors behind a drop in oil pressure is essential for maintaining your vehicle's health and performance.

LOW ENGINE OIL 

Low engine oil can cause a drop in oil pressure, leading to potential damage to the engine. When the oil level is low, there is not enough lubrication to properly coat and protect the engine components. This can result in increased friction and heat, which can ultimately lead to engine failure. 

INCORRECT OIL VISCOSITY

When the viscosity is incorrect, the oil may either be too thin or too thick, compromising its ability to properly lubricate engine components. This can lead to increased friction and heat generation, ultimately causing a drop in oil pressure. 

BAD OIL PUMP

A malfunctioning oil pump or a faulty oil pressure sensor can lead to either diminished oil pressure or unreliable pressure readings. This situation demands immediate attention, as it poses a risk of potential engine damage if left unattended. 

DIRTY OIL FILTER

A dirty oil filter is a common culprit behind a drop in oil pressure. As it becomes clogged with debris and contaminants, the flow of oil through the engine is hindered, resulting in inadequate lubrication of vital components and a subsequent decrease in oil pressure.

How to deal with low engine oil pressure?

Here are some preventative measures you can take to reduce the chances of low engine oil pressure occurring:

1. Regular Oil Changes: Keep the oil clean and effective by changing it at recommended intervals. Dirty oil loses its lubricating abilities, leading to potential low oil pressure.

2. Use Correct Oil Type: Ensure you're using the oil recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. Different engines require specific viscosity levels for optimal performance.

3. Check Oil Level: Regularly monitor your oil level, especially if your vehicle lacks an oil pressure gauge. A decreasing level could indicate low oil pressure.

4. Avoid Aggressive Driving: Moderate your driving style to prevent rapid oil degradation caused by high speeds, sudden accelerations, and harsh braking.

5. Consult a Professional: Persistent low oil pressure may signify underlying mechanical issues. Don't hesitate to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic for thorough diagnostics and repairs.

Conclusion

A competent mechanic can explain how the problem will be fixed, what it will cost, and how long it will take to fix it. The mechanic can also tell you other options available to drivers when their low oil pressure indicator is on.

FAQs

1. How does a car act when it is low on oil? 

When your vehicle’s engine oil runs low, it stops lubricating the engine components. This can cause loud clunking and knocking sounds from underneath your hood as components wear down. It will also cause breaks in your rods. These are typically accompanied by a knocking sound that’s heard from underneath your vehicle’s hood.

2. What would cause engine oil to be low? 

Low engine oil is an indicator that there is a problem with the engine. If the level gets low, it can prevent proper lubrication of critical components inside the engine and cause starting problems, engine failure, and damage to critical components. There are several different things that can be causing this issue from poor quality oil to poor maintenance to excessive wear and tear on internal components. 

3. What are the signs of low oil? 

Engine oil is essential for the operation of one’s car. It helps to lubricate moving parts and prevents wear, friction, and noise. However, when the engine oil goes low, one can notice the following symptoms:

• Warning Light for Oil Pressure 

• The odor of burning oil

• Poorer Results

• Engine Overheating 

• Unusual Noises