What does the car display when it runs out of engine oil?
3 Answers
When the car runs out of engine oil, it displays an oil can dripping symbol. Engine oil primarily serves the functions of lubrication, sealing, heat dissipation, and rust prevention. Insufficient engine oil can cause the engine to operate with inadequate lubrication, poor sealing, and insufficient heat dissipation, leading to excessive wear of the engine, severe local wear or damage, and in severe cases, engine failure. Notes on engine oil: 1. The oil level should be slightly below the mark on the dipstick. Engine oil is extremely important for the engine, as it is responsible for both lubrication and heat dissipation. 2. Choose engine oil with different viscosities based on the engine's operating conditions. Use lower viscosity oil when the seasonal temperature is lower and higher viscosity oil when the seasonal temperature is higher.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have encountered situations where the oil warning light came on. The dashboard displays a small oil can icon, usually in red or yellow, indicating that the oil pressure is too low or almost depleted. That time on the highway, I noticed it flashing right after starting the car, so I pulled over immediately. Checking the dipstick revealed the oil was nearly empty. If not addressed promptly, the internal engine components would suffer severe friction, leading to overheating or even complete failure. Later, I learned to check the oil level monthly by simply using the dipstick. It's also crucial to ensure the oil type matches the engine requirements—using the wrong type can damage the engine. Regular maintenance is a money-saver; don't wait until the light comes on, as the car might already be damaged. After forming this habit, I've never faced such trouble again.
Experience tells me that the oil warning light is never a trivial matter—it's that red oil can symbol flashing on your dashboard. This signals trouble in the oil system—low oil level, leaks, or abnormal pressure. Continuing to drive risks sudden engine failure or even fire. I recommend safely pulling over immediately and checking the dipstick under the hood. If the oil is low, top it up with the correct type—be it mineral or synthetic oil—never random substitutes. Long-term neglect could lead to repair bills exceeding tens of thousands. Pro tip: Regular oil changes are key—follow your manual's mileage intervals. Prevention always costs less than repairs.
