Stop drivingred light
Oil Pressure Warning
STOP. Low oil pressure can destroy an engine in minutes.
What it means
A red oil-can with a drip. It means the oil pump isn’t maintaining enough pressure to lubricate the engine — usually because the oil level is dangerously low, or the pump itself is failing. Continued driving can wreck the engine within minutes.
What to do
- 1Pull over safely as soon as possible and switch off the engine.
- 2Check the dipstick once the engine has cooled for a couple of minutes.
- 3If low, top up with the correct grade of oil. If the light stays on after restart, do not drive — call recovery.
Likely causes
- •Very low oil level (most common — and most preventable)
- •Failing oil pump
- •Blocked oil pickup or filter
- •Worn engine bearings
Rough UK cost
Top-up: £8–£25. Oil pump or bearing repair: £400–£2,500+. New engine: from £2,500.
Prices are a guide only — always get a written quote before any work.
Heads up: Carautonomy is for general guidance only. If your car is behaving oddly or any red light is on, get it inspected by a qualified mechanic.