Why does the oil light come on and the engine make noise?
2 Answers
The reasons for the oil light coming on and the engine making noise are: 1. Insufficient oil level; 2. Damaged oil pump components with excessive clearance; 3. Improper clearance between the crankshaft and big/small bearings; 4. Clogged oil filter or oil suction screen; 5. Faulty or damaged oil return valve; 6. Main oil gallery return valve spring stuck by debris causing poor sealing. The solutions for the oil light coming on and the engine making noise are: 1. Add oil promptly; 2. Replace the oil pump; 3. Adjust the clearance between the crankshaft and big/small bearings; 4. Replace the oil filter; 5. Clean the oil passages to ensure smooth flow; 6. Remove engine carbon deposits; 7. Replace the oil return valve.
Having driven for many years, I've seen quite a few cases where the oil light comes on accompanied by unusual engine noises, mostly due to lubrication system issues. The oil light usually indicates low oil pressure, which could mean insufficient oil level or a faulty oil pump. When lubrication is inadequate, engine components experience increased friction, producing noises like clanking or tapping. You should immediately pull over safely and turn off the engine, then check the dipstick to see the oil level. If it's below the min line, quickly add some standard engine oil as a temporary measure. However, it could also indicate severe internal wear, such as bearing damage, which produces more pronounced noises. Don't push on driving—this could lead to engine overheating or even complete failure, costing thousands to repair. I recommend changing the oil and filter every 5,000 km and making it a habit to check oil levels before starting the car. Small preventive measures can save big money and trouble. If you encounter this situation, calling a tow truck for a full inspection at a repair shop is the safest approach.
