Motoro
Sign Up
All warning lights

Oil Pressure Warning Light

Red - stop right away

oil can light · low oil pressure light

What it means

Engine oil pressure has dropped below a safe level, meaning moving parts inside the engine may not be getting enough lubrication.

Common causes

  • Low oil level (leak or long overdue for a change)
  • Failing oil pump
  • Clogged oil filter or pickup screen
  • Worn engine bearings
  • Faulty oil pressure sensor (less common)

What to do

Pull over and stop the engine as soon as it is safe. Check the oil level once the engine has cooled and top it up if low; if the light stays on with correct oil level, do not keep driving - have it towed.

Can you keep driving?

No. Running an engine with no oil pressure for even a minute or two can destroy it. Stop immediately and check before continuing.

Don't guess what's wrong with your car

Find a trusted auto repair shop near you and book a diagnostic visit online in minutes.

Find a repair shop

Run a shop? The OBD decoder, fuse box diagrams and parts catalog are built into the Motoro dashboard. See Motoro for workshops

Descriptions are for guidance only and do not replace a workshop inspection. If you are ever unsure whether it is safe to keep driving, pull over in a safe spot.

Related symptoms

This warning light sometimes appears alongside these symptoms:

Related warning lights