Oil Pressure Warning Light
GarageDex's warning light guide shows the oil pressure warning light means the engine's oil pressure has dropped too low to protect its moving parts. No. Pull over and switch the engine off as soon as it is safe. Without oil pressure, serious engine damage can follow quickly.
Stop driving as soon as it is safe
Looks like: An oil can with a drop falling from the spout.
What to do
- Pull over safely and turn the engine off.
- Wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the pan.
- Check the level on the dipstick and top up to the full mark if it is low.
- If the level is correct, or the light comes back on, do not drive. Arrange a tow.
Common causes
- Low oil level from a leak or oil consumption
- Faulty oil pressure sensor or switch
- Worn or failing oil pump
- Blocked oil pickup
How to turn it off
It turns off by itself once oil pressure is back to normal. If topping up the oil does not fix it, the cause needs a mechanic to diagnose.
For your exact carFind your oil type & capacityLook it upFrequently asked
What does the oil pressure warning light mean?
GarageDex's warning light guide shows the oil pressure warning light means the engine's oil pressure has dropped too low to protect its moving parts. No. Pull over and switch the engine off as soon as it is safe. Without oil pressure, serious engine damage can follow quickly.
Can I drive with the oil pressure warning light on?
No. Pull over and switch the engine off as soon as it is safe. Without oil pressure, serious engine damage can follow quickly.
What causes the oil pressure warning light?
The common causes: Low oil level from a leak or oil consumption; Faulty oil pressure sensor or switch; Worn or failing oil pump; Blocked oil pickup.
How do I turn off the oil pressure warning light?
It turns off by itself once oil pressure is back to normal. If topping up the oil does not fix it, the cause needs a mechanic to diagnose.
Related guides
Other warning lights
General guidance for mainstream vehicles - your owner's manual is the authority for your car. Reviewed by the GarageDex editorial team.