Oil pressure warning light (oil can symbol)

Symptoms

• Red oil can icon lights up, often with a beep
• May happen at idle, on startup, or while driving
• Possible knocking or ticking noise from the engine

Likely causes

• CommonLow oil levelA slow leak or overdue oil change can drop the level enough to lose pressure.
• PossibleFailing oil pumpThe pump can't maintain pressure through the engine even with enough oil.
• PossibleClogged oil filter or oil passagesRestricts flow to critical engine parts.
• PossibleFaulty oil pressure sensorSometimes the sensor itself is bad and oil pressure is actually fine.
• Less commonWorn engine bearingsAdvanced engine wear can reduce oil pressure even with good oil level.

What to do

1. Pull over and shut the engine off immediately, even if you're in an inconvenient spot.
2. Do not continue driving; low oil pressure can destroy the engine in under a minute.
3. Once safely stopped and the engine is off, check the oil level with the dipstick.
4. If oil is very low, add the correct type in small amounts and recheck the level.
5. Restart briefly and watch if the light turns off; if it stays on, shut the engine off again.
6. If oil was full and the light stayed on, do not drive the car; have it towed.
7. Get the oil pump, sensor, and oil passages checked by a mechanic before driving further.
8. Change the oil and filter if it hasn't been done in a while, since old oil can also cause low pressure.

Tools and parts

• Dipstick (built into car)
• Funnel

When to call a pro

Call a mechanic or tow service if the light stays on with oil topped off, or if you hear knocking; do not restart repeatedly.

Safety