How Long Can You Drive When the Engine Oil Light Comes On?
2 Answers
You should not drive when the engine oil light comes on. The reasons for the engine oil light illuminating are: 1. Insufficient oil level; 2. Clogged oil passages; 3. Low oil viscosity; 4. Oil pump issues; 5. Problems with the oil sensor; 6. Electromagnetic interference. The functions of engine oil include: 1. Lubrication and friction reduction; 2. Assisting in cooling; 3. Sealing and leak prevention; 4. Rust and corrosion protection; 5. Shock absorption. The steps for changing engine oil are: 1. Lift the car, remove the underguard, and place a container of about 10 liters under the drain plug; 2. Unscrew the drain plug, use an air gun to blow into the oil filler port for two minutes, then tighten the drain plug and check for leaks with a paper towel; 3. Reinstall the underguard, lower the car, and use a funnel to add new oil into the filler port.
Seeing the oil pressure light on is quite urgent. I strongly advise you not to risk driving for too long—it's best not to delay even a minute. The oil light usually indicates insufficient oil pressure, which could be due to an oil leak or a faulty oil pump. If not addressed promptly, engine components will experience severe friction and overheating, potentially destroying the engine in minutes. I personally witnessed a friend who stubbornly drove a few kilometers, only to have the engine seize up, costing him 20,000–30,000 RMB in repairs. So here's my advice: Immediately pull over to a safe spot, turn off the engine, and check the dipstick—wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check the oil level. If it's low, add some spare oil and see if the light turns off. If it does, drive slowly to a repair shop. If the light stays on, do not restart the engine—call a tow truck instead. Remember, safety always comes first—don’t risk destroying your entire car to save a few minutes. Develop a habit of checking the oil level monthly to prevent such mishaps.
