
Engine symptoms when low on oil: 1. Poor lubrication in splash lubrication areas inside the engine; 2. When oil pressure drops too low due to insufficient oil, it will cause poor lubrication on the engine's friction surfaces, leading to abnormal vibrations, reduced power, and in severe cases, may even cause engine bearing seizure. The specific manifestation is abnormal engine vibrations until stalling, after which the engine cannot be restarted; 3. When oil pressure drops too low due to insufficient oil, it can also cause abnormal operation of the engine's variable timing solenoid valve, resulting in inability to precisely control the engine's intake and exhaust valves, leading to operational abnormalities, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption.

I remember that time when I was driving my old car, the engine suddenly started making a clanking noise, like metal grinding against metal, which was particularly harsh. Then the car gradually lost power, and when I stepped on the gas, the engine seemed to struggle. After stopping, I saw the oil warning light was on. These symptoms are quite common, mainly due to low oil levels, causing bearings and pistons to lack lubrication, increasing friction and leading to overheating. The engine might also emit smoke and feel hot to the touch. If left untreated, it could destroy the entire engine, with repair costs running into thousands. It's best to check the oil level regularly before driving to avoid major trouble.

I once experienced low engine oil while driving on the highway. The car first made a strange rumbling noise, like a chain dragging on the ground, followed by noticeable hesitation and lack of power during acceleration. Upon inspection, I found all the oil had leaked out, forcing me to pull over immediately. These symptoms not only accelerate engine wear but also cause a sharp increase in fuel consumption. I recommend developing the habit of checking the dipstick monthly to avoid serious damage from delayed detection like in my case. Remember, these warning signs often precede oil depletion – addressing them early saves both money and hassle.

For those who frequently drive long distances, the most dangerous symptoms of low oil are black smoke or overheating from the engine, increased noise resembling banging on an iron barrel, and a rapid loss of power or even stalling. This can lead to safety risks, such as sudden loss of speed on the highway. I've found that it's crucial to stop immediately and check the oil level to prevent complete engine damage. For daily maintenance, simply keeping the oil level normal is sufficient.


