Can You Continue Driving When the Oil Can Light Comes On?
3 Answers
You can continue driving when the oil can light comes on. If you notice the oil can light illuminated while driving, first find a safe place to stop and check the engine oil level. If the level is normal, you can continue driving and then have it inspected at the nearest 4S shop. If the oil level is insufficient, you should not continue driving, as the lack of oil could damage the engine. In this case, immediately call the 4S shop to arrange for a tow truck to take your car in for inspection and repair. There are two scenarios when the oil can light comes on: 1. If you see the oil pressure indicator light up after starting the car, do not drive further. First, check the oil dipstick and oil level for any abnormalities. If there are issues, you need to add oil. If the cause cannot be determined, take the car to the nearest repair shop for inspection. 2. If the oil warning light comes on while driving, find a safe place to stop and check the oil level. If driving seems normal, continue to the nearest 4S shop for inspection.
I've been driving for decades, and the oil pressure light coming on is no small matter. Once when I was on a long-distance delivery run in a hurry, I ignored the light and stubbornly drove another ten kilometers or so. The engine ended up seizing with a loud crack, costing me over ten thousand yuan in towing and major repairs. Engine oil is like the lifeblood of your engine - it lubricates, cools, and prevents rust. When that light comes on, it means either oil level is too low or oil pressure is insufficient. Continuing to drive causes direct metal-to-metal friction and overheating, which can quickly destroy components. After stopping, turn off the engine, wait five minutes, then pull out the dipstick to check the oil level (wipe it clean first before reinserting). If it's below the minimum mark, you'll need to add oil. But my advice? Don't drive at all - safety first. Pull over immediately and call for assistance or find a repair shop. Make it a habit to check oil levels every time you refuel, and carry spare oil on long trips as a precaution.
When I bought my first used car, the oil can light really made me nervous. I thought I could still hold on, but the mechanic told me that engine oil is the engine's protective umbrella. If the light is on, it means there's a problem with the lubrication system. Continuing to drive will cause rapid engine wear, and in severe cases, the engine may stall on the road, which is dangerous. I remember stopping the car, turning off the engine, taking out my phone to check the manual for the location of the oil dipstick to see if the oil level was low. If possible, adding some oil as an emergency measure might work. But definitely don't drive far; it's best to call for help or use the insurance company's towing service. Beginners often overlook maintenance. Now, I check the oil and coolant temperature every two weeks to avoid the panic when the light comes on. I always keep a bottle of oil in the car. A little trick is to habitually glance at the dashboard before driving.
