What Causes Low Engine Oil Pressure?
2 Answers
Reasons for low engine oil pressure: 1. Insufficient oil level in the oil pan; 2. Oil quality does not meet requirements; 3. Fuel or water mixed into the oil; 4. Oil temperature is too high; 5. Oil filter screen is clogged or the oil inlet line is leaking air; 6. Insufficient oil pump pressure; 7. Severe leakage from the pressure relief valve; 8. Oil filter and main oil passage are clogged; 9. Oil cooling nozzle is leaking; 10. Excessive clearance between the main bearing cap and its seat hole. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, is composed of base oil and additives. It serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption for the engine.
As a truck driver with over a decade of experience, I can tell you that an engine oil pressure red light is something you should never ignore. It's most likely due to insufficient or overly thin oil—shut off the engine immediately and check the dipstick. If the oil level is normal, then you need to be on high alert. I've seen cases where people kept driving and ended up with a seized engine, costing at least ten thousand yuan to fix. Other possibilities include an oil pan leak, a clogged oil pump screen, or a faulty oil pressure sensor giving false alarms. Last time, my buddy's truck had a frayed sensor wire grounding out—replacing the sensor for thirty yuan fixed it. But if you hear a rattling noise from the middle of the engine, you're in trouble—it's probably a worn-out bearing, and you'll need to call a tow truck!
