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How to React when the Oil Light Is On. When the oil pressure warning light comes on in
your vehicle, you should immediately investigate the cause. You will need A safe place to stop
Oil An oil filter An auto mechanic and diagnostic check. Step 1. Stop driving the vehicle when
the oil pressure warning light comes on and pull over to a safe place. Failure to stop
can cause serious mechanical damage to your car. Step 2. Check the oil level on the dipstick,
making sure the level is in the proper range. Step 3. Add oil if the indicated level is
too low. Make sure the oil conforms to the manufacturer’s recommended viscosity. If
the engine is burning oil, adding oil will only temporarily turn off the oil light. Step
4. Check the oil filter to see if it is plugged up with gunk. A clogged oil filter can also
result in low oil pressure. Step 5. Observe whether the engine is leaking oil if the problem
has still not been solved. If there is a leak, have an auto mechanic replace any problematic
gaskets or oil seals. Most leaky gaskets and seals can be replaced without major expense.
Step 6. Have a mechanic check whether the warning light remains on after it's disconnected
from the oil-sending unit. If the light remains on, there is probably a short in the warning
light circuit. Step 7. Have the mechanic perform diagnostic tests if the oil light remains
on. Other possible reasons include problems with the oil pump, rod and main bearing clearances,
camshaft end play, or cam bearings and lifters. Did you know A common oil change error is
cross-threading the oil pan drain plug, causing an oil leak.