Can the car still be driven if the lower part of the dipstick just touches the oil?
2 Answers
Can the car still be driven if the lower part of the dipstick just touches the oil? The car can still be driven, but only at low speed and low load. Short-distance driving is also possible, but you must pay attention to the engine oil pressure and water temperature. If an alarm sounds, you should not continue driving. The oil reaching the lower limit only indicates that the amount of oil inside the engine has reached the lower limit allowed for use, not that there is no oil. Generally, there is about one liter of capacity between the upper and lower limits on the dipstick. Even if it reaches the lower limit, the lubrication function of the oil is sufficient. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, can lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal and prevent leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption for the engine.
With my extensive driving experience, I strongly advise against continuing to drive when the oil level just touches the lower mark on the dipstick. Low oil level indicates severe oil shortage, leading to poor engine lubrication and increased friction between components, which may cause overheating, wear, or even engine failure. Once, due to my negligence in checking, I drove a few dozen kilometers and ended up with a seized engine, costing nearly 8,000 yuan in repairs. I recommend stopping the engine immediately and finding a safe place to check for leaks. If there's an auto parts store nearby, buy a bottle of the same type of engine oil and top it up; otherwise, call a tow truck to a repair shop. Make it a habit to check the oil level five minutes after parking, as it's more accurate when the engine is warm. Also, check if the oil has turned black or emulsified. In short, safety first—don't risk major damage for minor savings.
