No, you should never attempt to start a car's engine if it has zero oil pressure. The engine will be severely damaged within seconds. Oil pressure is the lifeblood of your engine; without it, metal components like pistons, crankshafts, and camshafts grind against each other without lubrication. This creates immense friction and heat, leading to catastrophic failure. The engine might crank, but the cost of running it will be a seized engine or thousands of dollars in repairs.
The oil pump, driven by the engine, is responsible for creating this critical pressure. It circulates oil from the pan to all the moving parts. A zero reading on the gauge (or a red warning light) while the engine is running signals a serious failure. However, when the engine is off, the gauge will naturally read zero. The problem occurs when you start it and the pressure doesn't build.
If you see a zero oil pressure reading after starting, shut the engine off immediately to minimize damage. The most common causes include a failed oil pump, a severe oil leak that has drained the oil, a clogged oil pickup tube, or a faulty oil pressure sending unit. The sending unit is the best-case scenario, as it's just an electrical sensor failure.
Here are potential consequences and their associated repair costs:
| Potential Damage from Running with No Oil Pressure | Estimated Repair Cost (Parts & Labor) |
|---|
| Seized Engine (Requires full replacement) | $4,000 - $8,000+ |
| Worn Crankshaft & Bearings | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Damaged Piston Rings & Cylinder Walls | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Destroyed Camshaft & Valvetrain | $1,000 - $2,500 |
| Failed Turbocharger (if equipped) | $1,000 - $2,500 |
The safest action is to not start the engine at all. Check the oil level with the dipstick first. If it's low, add oil. If the level is fine, the issue is mechanical or electrical and requires a professional diagnosis. Towing the car to a mechanic is far cheaper than replacing an engine.
