Oil pressure warning light
Also called: oil can light
The engine has lost oil pressure. Stop as soon as it's safe.
What it means
This light means oil pressure has dropped below a safe level. Oil pressure is what keeps the bearings and moving parts from grinding metal on metal, so this is one of the most urgent lights on the dash. On some vehicles a separate yellow light or message means the oil level is low; the red oil can means pressure.
Green, yellow, red: three ways this can look
Match your situation to the closest example.
Keep an eye on it
It flickers for a second at startup and goes out, or flickers only at hot idle and the oil level checks full. Get it checked soon, but it isn't an emergency yet.
Schedule a repair
The oil level is low on the dipstick and the light went out after topping off. Book a visit to find the leak or consumption before it happens again.
Stop and get help
The light stays on while driving, or you hear knocking or ticking. Pull over and shut the engine off right away. A few minutes without oil pressure can ruin the engine.
Common causes
- Low oil level from a leak or burning oil
- Failed oil pressure sensor or wiring
- Worn oil pump or engine bearings
- Clogged oil filter or pickup
- Wrong oil viscosity
What to do right now
- Pull over safely and turn the engine off
- Wait a few minutes, then check the dipstick
- If it's low, add the correct oil and see if the light stays off at startup
- If the level is full and the light stays on, don't drive it. Call for help
Related guides
Symbols and meanings vary a little by make and model. Your owner's manual has the exact meaning for your vehicle.
Other warning lights
Questions
What does the oil pressure warning light mean?
The engine has lost oil pressure. Stop as soon as it's safe. This light means oil pressure has dropped below a safe level. Oil pressure is what keeps the bearings and moving parts from grinding metal on metal, so this is one of the most urgent lights on the dash. On some vehicles a separate yellow light or message means the oil level is low; the red oil can means pressure.
Can I keep driving with the oil pressure warning light on?
Green: It flickers for a second at startup and goes out, or flickers only at hot idle and the oil level checks full. Get it checked soon, but it isn't an emergency yet. Yellow: The oil level is low on the dipstick and the light went out after topping off. Book a visit to find the leak or consumption before it happens again. Red: The light stays on while driving, or you hear knocking or ticking. Pull over and shut the engine off right away. A few minutes without oil pressure can ruin the engine.
What causes the oil pressure warning light?
Common causes: low oil level from a leak or burning oil; failed oil pressure sensor or wiring; worn oil pump or engine bearings; clogged oil filter or pickup.
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