What Does It Mean When a Teapot-Shaped Light Comes On in a Car?
2 Answers
The teapot-shaped indicator light on the dashboard is the engine oil warning light. When this light illuminates, it indicates that the engine oil temperature has exceeded the preset threshold. It is essential to stop the vehicle immediately for inspection. To ensure safety, the car should be taken to a repair shop as soon as possible for a thorough check-up and necessary repairs, such as an oil change. Specific reasons for the light coming on: Insufficient engine oil level, which reduces the oil pump's output or prevents it from pumping oil due to air intake, leading to a drop in oil pressure; excessively high engine temperature, which can thin the oil, causing it to leak excessively through the gaps and resulting in decreased oil pressure; clogged oil filters or oil suction screens can reduce oil supply, leading to a drop in oil pressure. Emergency measures when the light comes on: First, turn on the hazard warning lights, shift to neutral, and coast to the side of the road to stop the vehicle. Turn off the engine. Open the engine hood, pull out the oil dipstick, and check the engine oil level. If the oil level is low, try to top it up before continuing your journey. Develop the habit of checking the oil level before driving and performing regular vehicle maintenance. If there is an oil leak, take the car to a repair shop as soon as possible for inspection and repair.
I remember being really panicked the first time I saw this teapot-shaped light come on the highway. Later, a veteran mechanic told me that this Aladdin's lamp-like symbol is actually the engine oil pressure warning light. It usually lights up due to engine oil issues—either the oil level is too low or the oil pressure is insufficient. The last time this light came on in my car, I immediately pulled over and turned off the engine. When I checked the dipstick, there wasn't even any oil on it. Fortunately, I had a spare bottle of oil, and after topping it up, everything returned to normal. However, if the light stays on after adding oil, it could mean the oil pump is broken or there's a sensor malfunction. Most importantly, never continue driving when this light is on. My neighbor ignored it and drove home anyway, resulting in a completely seized engine—the repair cost was nearly half the price of the car.
