Can You Drive When the Engine Oil Is Below the Minimum Mark?

[DelCole]

If the engine oil level is below the minimum mark, you should immediately stop driving, turn off the engine, and wait for assistance. Continuing to drive under such conditions can cause severe engine damage. Below are the hazards associated with oil levels below the minimum mark and overfilling: Hazards of Oil Level Below the Minimum Mark: If the oil level is just below the minimum mark, the crankshaft may not reach the oil, preventing lubrication of the cylinder walls and piston pins, which accelerates wear. If the oil level decreases further, the oil pump may also fail to reach the oil. Once the oil pump cannot draw oil, all parts of the engine requiring lubrication will be deprived of oil, leading to engine damage within minutes. Hazards of Overfilling Oil: Overfilling causes a larger portion of the crankshaft to immerse in the oil, making rotation more strenuous due to increased oil resistance. This results in higher fuel consumption and symptoms such as sluggish acceleration and engine choking.