What are the causes and solutions for low oil pressure?
3 Answers
The causes and solutions for low oil pressure are: 1. Insufficient engine oil, promptly add oil; 2. Clogged oil pump screen, clean the screen; 3. Pressure relief valve failure, repair or replace the valve; 4. Clogged oil filter, remove and clean the filter; 5. Cracked engine cylinder head, replace the head; 6. Excessive clearance in engine crankshaft, camshaft, or connecting rod main bearings, perform repairs or replacements. Engine oil consists of base oil and additives, with base oil being the main component of lubricant, determining its fundamental properties. Its functions include: 1. Lubrication and friction reduction; 2. Auxiliary cooling; 3. Sealing and leakage prevention; 4. Rust and corrosion prevention; 5. Shock absorption and cushioning.
I have considerable experience with the causes and solutions for low oil pressure. Insufficient oil level is the most common cause, possibly due to oil leaks or excessive consumption. It's essential to check the dipstick immediately after parking. If it's too low, simply add the correct specification of oil. Secondly, a clogged oil filter can obstruct oil flow, naturally reducing pressure. I usually recommend replacing the filter to see if that helps. Additionally, a worn or faulty oil pump can prevent pressure from building up, requiring professional repair. Another possibility is a malfunctioning oil pressure sensor, which can give false readings—checking the electrical circuit should resolve this. When addressing the issue, safety comes first; avoid driving the vehicle as this could lead to engine bearing damage. Before sending it for repair, you can check the fluid level and look for visible leaks yourself. Regular oil and filter changes can prevent this problem, so don't skip the 5,000-kilometer maintenance intervals.
Last time my car's oil pressure warning light came on, it scared me into pulling over immediately. The reason wasn't complicated—either the engine oil was gone or the filter was dirty and blocked the oil passage. I checked the dipstick and found the level was a bit low, so I topped up half a liter of oil, which temporarily solved the problem. Later, I learned the filter needed replacing too, and it was only after installing a new one that the issue was fully resolved. Don't take oil pressure lightly; low pressure can cause the engine to overheat or even fail completely. A friend of mine learned this the hard way and spent over ten thousand on repairs. I've made it a habit to check the oil level and color every month—if it turns black or thin, I change it early. In cold weather, I use winter-grade oil to prevent pressure abnormalities. If there's a problem, take it to a repair shop instead of trying to fix it yourself.
