What is the indicator for insufficient engine oil?
2 Answers
When the car's engine oil is insufficient, an indicator light resembling a "teapot" shape, which is the oil pressure warning light, will appear to alert the driver of low oil levels. At this point, the driver should promptly visit a nearby gas station or auto repair shop to replenish the engine oil to prevent further damage to the engine due to insufficient lubrication. Introduction to Engine Oil: Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant (English name: Engine-oil), serves multiple functions including lubrication and friction reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, as well as shock absorption. It is often referred to as the "blood" of a car. Composition of Engine Oil: Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary constituent of lubricating oil, determining its fundamental properties, while additives compensate for and enhance the performance shortcomings of the base oil, imparting new characteristics. Additives are an essential part of lubricating oil.
The other day while driving, I noticed an oil can-shaped light suddenly illuminated on the dashboard. The icon looks like a small oil can, usually yellow or red in color - this is the engine oil warning light. When it lights up, it means the oil level is critically low. This is extremely important because engine oil is responsible for lubricating engine components. Insufficient oil can cause the engine to overheat, accelerate wear, and in severe cases lead to complete engine failure. I had to pull over immediately to check the dipstick and see if the oil level was below the minimum line. If the level is below the MIN mark, you need to promptly add the appropriate brand and viscosity grade of oil that matches your vehicle model. If unsure, it's best not to continue driving and instead find a repair shop to check for potential oil leaks - such as from aged seals or engine oil burning issues. For safety, I've made it a habit to check my oil level weekly as preventive maintenance to avoid problems.
