What are the impacts of insufficient oil pressure?
2 Answers
Insufficient oil pressure can lead to poor lubrication at critical components such as crankshafts, connecting rods, and camshaft bearings, potentially causing abnormal engine noises, unstable operation, and reduced power output. Additionally, inadequate lubrication at key friction points may result in localized overheating. Continuous operation under low oil pressure can, in severe cases, cause engine bearing seizure (commonly referred to as "spun bearings"), rendering the engine inoperable and requiring bearing replacement or resurfacing. Engine oil, also known as motor lubricant, performs vital functions including friction reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing, rust prevention, and shock absorption – earning its reputation as the "lifeblood" of vehicles. It consists of base oils and additive packages.
Last time I encountered the red oil pressure warning light and immediately pulled over. Insufficient oil pressure is like a death sentence for the engine, most directly causing dry friction between bearing shells and the crankshaft – just a few minutes can completely destroy the engine. A friend who drove an old Jetta stubbornly persisted for ten minutes and ended up spending over 8,000 yuan on major repairs. Nowadays, the yellow oil light indicates low pressure warning, while the red light signals critically low pressure – you must shut off the engine immediately when seeing red. This situation also accelerates wear on camshafts and piston rings, and worse, high temperatures thin out the oil, creating a vicious cycle of escalating damage. Make it a habit to check the oil pressure gauge during cold starts, and if you hear metal grinding sounds from the engine, don't push your luck.
