What it means
This warning means engine oil pressure may be too low to lubricate the engine safely. Red signals a serious warning: stop as soon as it is safe and switch off the engine; the colour or exact behaviour may vary by manufacturer.
What the symbol looks like: An oil can with a drop falling from its spout.
Why it comes on
- Engine oil level is too low
- Oil leak or damaged oil filter
- Incorrect, degraded, or diluted engine oil
- Faulty oil pressure sensor or wiring
- Oil pump, pickup, or internal engine fault
What to do
- Pull over safely and switch off the engine promptly.
- Wait on level ground, then check the oil level as described in the owner's manual.
- If the level is low, add only the specified oil if available and recheck; do not restart if there is a major leak or other damage.
- If the light remains on, the level is correct, or you are unsure, arrange recovery and professional inspection.
Can I keep driving?
Do not keep driving with this warning on; running the engine with low oil pressure can cause severe damage quickly. Avoid restarting it until the cause has been checked.
Symbols and colours differ between makes and models. Your owner’s manual shows the exact lights of your car.