Can You Still Drive When the Car Displays an Oil Change Reminder?
3 Answers
You can still drive when the car displays an oil change reminder, but avoid driving long distances and change the oil as soon as possible. The steps for changing the oil are: 1. Lift the car, remove the undercarriage cover, and place a container of about 10 liters under the oil drain plug; 2. Unscrew the oil drain plug, use an air gun to blow into the oil filler opening for two minutes, then tighten the drain plug and wipe it with a tissue to check for leaks; 3. Reinstall the undercarriage cover, lower the car, and use a funnel to add new oil through the filler opening. Precautions for changing the oil include: 1. Perform the change while the engine is warm to ensure complete drainage of old oil; 2. Ensure the correct amount of oil is added; 3. Start the engine after adding oil to check for leaks in all components; 4. After running the engine for 3 minutes, confirm the oil level is within the normal range.
I encountered this warning last time too, it was really scary, thought the car was going to be scrapped. When the oil light comes on, you can still drive, but definitely don't risk going too far or at high speeds. Insufficient oil makes the engine overheat, and increased wear can lead to major repair costs of thousands. I immediately pulled over to check the dipstick, found there was still a bit of oil left, then drove slowly to a nearby repair shop for an oil change. I suggest you get it handled at a professional shop ASAP - the longer you delay, the higher the risk. If you're inexperienced, don't try adding oil yourself; using the wrong type can make things worse. Develop a habit of regular checks and don't exceed oil change intervals - this extends vehicle lifespan and gives peace of mind when driving.
This warning light is indeed not a trivial matter. From my decades of driving experience, when the dashboard indicates an oil change, the car can still be driven for a short distance, but only at low speed to the nearest service point. Aged or insufficient engine oil can cause rough engine operation, and may even lead to smoking or engine seizure. Last time, my neighbor ignored it and drove 100 kilometers, resulting in engine damage and costly repairs. The correct approach is to first stop and check the oil level. If it's low, add the same type of oil as a temporary measure, then arrange for an oil change as soon as possible. Regular maintenance is crucial—it prevents many potential failures and ensures smooth vehicle operation.
