What does the butter pot symbol on the car dashboard indicate?
2 Answers
The butter pot symbol displayed on the car dashboard indicates that the engine oil pressure warning light is activated. Here are the reasons why the engine oil pressure warning light may illuminate: 1. Insufficient engine oil level: When the oil level is too low, the oil pump's output decreases or fails to pump oil due to air intake, resulting in reduced oil pressure. 2. Overheated engine: Excessive engine temperature can thin the engine oil, causing significant leakage through component clearances and leading to oil pressure drop. 3. Damaged oil pump components: When oil pump parts are damaged or excessive clearance occurs due to wear or improper assembly, the pump may fail to deliver sufficient oil, causing pressure reduction.
I saw the oil can warning light come on in my car, and my first thought was that there was an issue with the engine oil. I remember encountering a similar situation a few years ago—I immediately pulled over to check the dipstick and found the oil level was low. After topping it up, the light went off. This light typically indicates low oil pressure or insufficient oil volume, which could be due to a faulty oil pump, a leak, or a sensor malfunction. Without proper oil lubrication, high-speed engine components can grind against each other, leading to cylinder scoring or even complete engine failure, which would mean costly repairs. So, if this light comes on, always pull over to a safe spot immediately. First, check the oil level and top it up if needed. But if the light remains on, don’t risk driving—have it towed to a repair shop for diagnosis. To avoid trouble, make it a habit to check the oil level every two weeks or whenever you refuel.
