Can You Continue Driving with Low Engine Oil?
2 Answers
It is advised not to continue driving if the engine is low on oil, as doing so may cause engine damage. Engine oil is often referred to as the lifeblood of the engine, and without it, the engine cannot function properly. Engine oil serves multiple purposes, including lubrication, cleaning, sealing, cushioning, rust prevention, and heat dissipation. A shortage of engine oil can impair lubrication and cooling, potentially leading to engine seizure. During normal operation, engine oil forms a protective film on the surfaces of engine components, preventing direct contact between parts. This reduces friction between components and minimizes engine resistance.
If I encounter a situation where the engine is low on oil, I absolutely must not continue driving. Because engine oil is like the lifeline of the engine, it lubricates all moving parts and reduces friction and heat. If the oil level is too low or completely gone, the metal components inside the engine will directly rub against each other, generating extreme heat, leading to piston scuffing, bearing damage, or even seizure, potentially causing the entire engine to fail catastrophically in an instant. I remember inspecting a car once where the owner drove less than 10 kilometers after noticing low oil and continued driving, resulting in a repair bill of over ten thousand yuan for a new engine. Therefore, upon discovering insufficient oil, I immediately stop the car to check the dipstick level. If it's below the MIN mark, I promptly add the appropriate oil or call a tow truck to take it to a repair shop. Normally, I check the oil level monthly, and before long trips, I perform additional checks to avoid major disasters. The type of oil must also match the manufacturer's specifications; using a higher viscosity oil in summer provides better protection. Neglecting this simple check can lead to devastating consequences.
