It always happens at the worst time. You're headed down 2nd East, already running late, and a little light pops up on the dash. Before you panic (or ignore it), figure out which light it is.
Red oil can: pull over
A red light shaped like an old oil can means low oil pressure. That's the serious one. It means oil isn't getting where it needs to go, and driving on it can wreck an engine in minutes.
Here's what to do:
- Pull over somewhere safe and shut the engine off.
- Wait about five minutes so the oil can settle.
- Pull the dipstick, wipe it, push it back in, and pull it out again.
- If it's low, add a quart of whatever oil is printed on your oil cap. Most gas stations carry it.
If the light goes off after you top it up, you're probably okay to drive it in, but call us soon. Something made it low. If the oil level looked fine and the light is still on, don't drive it. That points to a pump or sensor problem, and it's worth a tow.
Yellow or orange light: you're due
A lot of newer cars have an amber "oil change due" or wrench light. That one is just a reminder. It's not an emergency, but don't let it ride for another 3,000 miles either. Call and get on the schedule sometime in the next week or so.
What about a flicker on a cold morning?
On a really cold Rexburg morning, the oil light can flicker for a second right after you start the car, especially if the oil is old and thick. If it goes away right away, it's not an emergency. It is a good sign you're overdue, though, and that synthetic might be a better fit for your car this winter.
Why oil gets low in the first place
- Older engines burn a little oil between changes.
- Small leaks from tired gaskets.
- It's simply been way too long since the last change.
If your light came on and you're not sure what to do, call us at (208) 555-0173. We'll talk you through it and get you in.