What does the teapot symbol on the car mean?
2 Answers
The teapot symbol on the car is the engine oil warning light. The reasons for it lighting up are: 1. Lack of engine oil; 2. Clogged oil pump filter screen; 3. Faulty pressure relief valve; 4. Clogged oil filter; 5. Blockage or cracking in the engine cylinder head or cylinder block; 6. Excessive clearance in the engine crankshaft, camshaft, or connecting rod main bearings. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricating oil, has the following functions: 1. Reducing friction and high temperatures; 2. Cooling and lowering temperature; 3. Cleaning and purifying; 4. Shock absorption and buffering; 5. Rust and corrosion prevention. Engine oil is composed of base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of lubricating oil, determining its basic properties, while additives can compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil's performance.
That little water kettle symbol really gave me a scare! I remember once on the highway when this small teapot icon suddenly lit up, and I immediately pulled over. After asking friends, I learned it indicates trouble with the engine cooling system—possibly low coolant levels or a temperature spike. Common triggers include coolant leaks, a stuck water pump, or a clogged radiator. Ignoring it could lead to engine overheating and catastrophic failure, with repair costs running sky-high. Since then, I've kept a spare bottle of coolant in my car. If the light comes on, I first turn off the engine to let it cool, then check the fluid level by opening the cap. If it's critically low, I'll top it up with distilled water as an emergency measure. But the safest approach is heading straight to a professional shop for diagnosis—they can pinpoint whether it's a leak or faulty component. I've also made it a habit to pop the hood monthly for a quick coolant level check, ensuring I'm never caught off-guard during long trips.
