What are the reasons for low oil pressure?
2 Answers
The reasons for low oil pressure include: 1. Insufficient oil quantity; 2. Wear or damage to the oil pump; 3. Engine overheating causing oil aging and deterioration; 4. Clogged oil pickup; 5. Damaged or improperly adjusted pressure relief valve; 6. Oil cooler leakage; 7. Oil viscosity too low; 8. Faulty pressure sensor or clogged oil passage; 9. Clogged oil filter; 10. Increased clearance between main bearings and connecting rod bearings; 11. Malfunctioning oil pressure display device. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption for the engine.
I've been driving for half my life and have plenty of experience with low oil pressure issues. Usually, it's due to insufficient oil level—you can check how much is missing by pulling out the dipstick yourself. Other times, it's a faulty oil pump that isn't pumping effectively. Clogged oil passages, like a dirty filter, can block oil flow. Low viscosity might mean you've chosen the wrong oil grade. Worn bearings with excessive clearance can't maintain proper oil pressure. Sometimes, the sensor gives false alarms—the light comes on, but there isn't necessarily a real problem. Don't underestimate this issue; low pressure can accelerate engine wear, damage pistons and crankshafts, and in severe cases, ruin the engine. My old truck suffered from this—when the light came on, I'd stop and check immediately, saving money and hassle. During maintenance, change the oil every 5,000 km and don’t forget the filter to prevent problems before they arise. Older cars especially need attention—high-mileage vehicles tend to have loose bearings, and you can often detect early signs by listening to engine noise.
