What does a kettle and a drop of water mean in a car?
3 Answers
A kettle with a drop of water is the symbol for the engine oil warning light. Here are the relevant details: Hazards: Only normal oil pressure can ensure that oil is delivered to all friction surfaces of the engine. Pressure that is too high or too low will affect the normal operation of the engine and may even cause damage to engine components. Therefore, when the oil light comes on, the engine should be stopped immediately to identify the cause, and work should only continue after the issue has been resolved. Reasons for the warning: Insufficient oil quantity, which reduces the oil pump's output or prevents it from pumping oil due to air intake, leading to a drop in oil pressure. Overheating of the engine can thin the oil, causing it to leak excessively through the gaps and resulting in decreased oil pressure. Damage to oil pump components or excessive gaps due to wear, assembly issues, etc., can cause the oil pump to fail to deliver oil or deliver insufficient oil. Improper clearance between the crankshaft and the bearings—too tight will increase oil pressure, too loose will decrease it. Clogged oil filters or oil pickup screens can also reduce oil pressure, among other issues.
That day I drove to the countryside for an outing, and the engine was making loud heating noises. When I popped open the hood, I saw only a drop of water left in that transparent plastic bottle. At first, I thought it was some kind of decoration. Later, a friend told me it was the coolant reservoir—the car uses it to cool the engine. The level being so low indicated the coolant was almost empty. If left untreated, the engine could overheat and stall at any moment, or even destroy the entire engine. I quickly went to buy a bottle of mixed coolant and topped it up. Now, I’ve developed the habit of checking it monthly—just look at the MIN and MAX marks on the bottle. If you smell something burning or the temperature gauge alarms while driving, pull over immediately to check. This issue really can’t be delayed; a small oversight could ruin your car.
I was driving my own car to take my kids to school when I noticed the liquid level in that round reservoir was so low it looked like only a drop was left, and I panicked instantly. This indicated a severe shortage of coolant, which could cause the engine to overheat and possibly leave me stranded on the road. I always keep a small bottle of coolant in the trunk, so I added some as an emergency measure before heading to the auto shop for a check-up. Everyone should take a quick look at the fluid reservoirs in the engine bay before driving to ensure the levels stay between the marked lines—don’t just rely on warning lights. Coolant is a specialized mixture, so never top it off with tap water, as it can corrode the pipes. Safe driving involves many small details, and something this simple can prevent major trouble.
