How low can the engine oil level be before it's unsafe to drive?
2 Answers
The engine oil level should not be too low nor overfilled. It's best to maintain it between the upper and lower marks on the dipstick. The dipstick has two standard lines or holes - the oil level should ideally be in the middle. Overfilling engine oil can cause excessive fuel consumption due to increased crankcase pressure, and accelerate wear on cylinders and pistons, reducing the vehicle's lifespan. Relevant information about engine oil is as follows: 1. Introduction 1: Engine oil, commonly known as "lubricating oil", is often referred to as the "blood" of a car if we consider the engine as its "heart". 2. Introduction 2: When the engine starts, friction occurs between components. Combined with high engine temperatures, prolonged operation can cause wear to the vehicle. Engine oil serves to properly maintain and protect the engine.
As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience, I've seen too many people suffer losses due to neglecting engine oil. Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car's engine—once it drops below the Min mark on the dipstick, you absolutely must not drive. Falling below Min indicates critically low oil levels, causing lubrication system failure and excessive friction heat in components like piston rings and bearings. The consequences range from increased engine noise and skyrocketing fuel consumption to severe damage like cylinder scoring or even total engine failure. My advice is to check every two weeks when the engine is cold: park on level ground, wait for the engine to cool, pull out the dipstick to wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check if the oil level is between Min and Max. If it's below Min, don't risk starting the engine—immediately add the correct specification oil or call a tow truck to a repair shop. This issue can't be delayed; one gamble could cost you tens of thousands in major repairs. Developing a habit of regular checks means taking responsibility for your car—and ultimately, your wallet.