Branch 1
Antwerpen / Merksem
Bredabaan 1052170 Merksem
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:30 Sat 10:00–17:00
Warning lights and starting
Oil warning light on: stop at once or book an appointment?
A red oil warning light can point to low oil pressure or a low oil level. Without enough lubrication an engine can be seriously damaged in a short time. That is why the first answer here is not “book an appointment” but to stop safely.
Recognisable signs
What you may notice.
- A red oil symbol (an oil can) is on or flickering, often when stationary or in bends
- A ticking or knocking noise from the engine as well
- There is oil under the car, or a burning smell comes from the engine bay
- Sometimes there is also a separate low-oil-level message, depending on the model
Possible causes
What may be behind it.
These are possibilities, not a diagnosis. A technician identifies which cause fits your car after checking it.
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Too little oil
An engine can use oil or leak it. If the level is too low, oil pressure can drop away.
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An oil leak
A leaking gasket, seal or pipe can let oil escape, sometimes only becoming noticeable after a while.
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A problem with oil pressure
A worn oil pump, a blocked strainer or a faulty sensor can disrupt the oil pressure or the way it is measured.
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A faulty light or sensor
Sometimes the cause is the pressure switch. You cannot rule that out yourself: never take it for granted.
Keep driving?
Can I keep driving with this?
No. With a red oil light on, it is better not to keep driving. Stop safely, switch off the engine and have the car towed or checked where it stands. Only check the oil level once the car is standing on level ground and the engine has cooled for a few minutes, and follow the handbook when you do. If the light is still on after topping up, do not start the engine again.
Stop safelyStop safely and get help
At WeFix
What WeFix can check.
This is what our technicians can look at to find the cause.
- Assessing the oil level and the condition of the oil
- Looking for an oil leak around the engine and underneath
- Having the oil pressure and the pressure switch checked
- Discussing what the engine has been through and which repair is needed
If we find something, you hear it first. We only repair after your approval.
Services
Related services.
This is where WeFix Auto’s can help with this symptom.
Branches
Call or drop by.
Not sure, or is it urgent? Call the branch near you and describe what you notice.
2170 Merksem
Branch 2
Brasschaat
Bredabaan 7372930 Brasschaat
Mon–Fri 08:30–18:00 Sat 09:00–12:00
Also read
Related problems.
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Check soon
Car makes a ticking or knocking noise
A ticking or knocking noise from the engine is not always serious, but it can point to a lack of lubrication or to wear inside the engine. How it sounds, when it happens and whether a warning light is on as well all help to judge it. Read the explanation -
Stop safely
Engine running too hot: what does a rising temperature mean?
If the temperature gauge climbs towards the red zone or a warning appears, the engine may be overheating. That can cause serious damage within a short time. The cause usually lies in the cooling system, but which part is at fault has to be investigated. Read the explanation -
Check soon
White, blue or black smoke from the exhaust
The colour of the smoke gives a first hint, but never certainty. A little white vapour on a cold start can simply be condensation. Persistent, thick white, blue or black smoke points to a possible problem with coolant, oil or combustion. Read the explanation -
Check soon
Check engine light on: what does it mean and can you keep driving?
The check engine light tells you that the car’s computer has detected a fault in the engine, the exhaust or the fuel supply. The light does not say exactly what is wrong: that takes a diagnostic read-out and a proper check. If it stays on constantly, have it looked at soon. If it flashes, extra care is needed. Read the explanation
Have your car checked.
Request a no-obligation quote or call a branch. You hear what we find first.
Please note: This explanation is general information and does not replace a technical diagnosis. The cause can only be established after your car has been checked. If you are worried about your safety, stop and ask for professional help.