What is the fault when the engine oil light is on and the engine makes noise?
2 Answers
Generally, if the engine oil light of a vehicle's engine is on, it indicates a fault in the engine's lubrication system. Here is relevant information about the engine oil light: 1. Function of the engine oil light: The engine oil light, also known as the engine oil pressure indicator, is used to indicate whether the oil pressure is normal. If the oil pressure is abnormal, the light will illuminate. Similar to the engine self-check indicator, the oil pressure indicator will also light up when the vehicle is started. If the oil pressure is normal, it will subsequently turn off. 2. Common fault points of the engine oil light include: (1) The oil pressure sensor itself is faulty, causing the vehicle's computer to receive incorrect oil pressure data, which results in the oil pressure light turning on. (2) The wiring harness of the oil pressure sensor is faulty, such as an open circuit or a short circuit, leading to the oil pressure light illuminating.
I've encountered the oil pressure light coming on along with a knocking sound from the engine a few times while driving, which usually indicates insufficient oil pressure or lubrication issues. For example, the oil pump might be damaged, preventing oil circulation and causing increased friction between components that produces noise; or it could be a faulty sensor giving false alarms; or oil leakage leading to low fluid levels. That distinct grinding noise is clearly a warning—if you don't stop to check, the engine bearings or pistons could be completely ruined. I remember last year when this happened to my friend's old car, it turned out the bearings were worn and needed major repairs, costing several thousand dollars. It's recommended to immediately find a safe place to pull over, check the dipstick to see if oil is low, and if possible, top it up with fresh oil as an emergency measure. Then quickly take it to a repair shop for diagnosis—don't risk continuing to drive to avoid engine failure. Make it a habit to check your oil condition every two weeks as part of regular maintenance, allowing early detection and treatment to extend your car's lifespan.
