Stop driving as soon as it's safe to do so.

This light generally indicates a problem serious enough that continuing to drive risks real damage or a safety issue.

Oil Pressure Warning Light

Stop Driving Now

What it generally indicates

Indicates the engine isn't getting adequate oil pressure, which the engine needs to protect its moving parts.

Possible causes

A low oil level, a failing oil pump, a clogged oil filter, or a faulty oil pressure sensor.

Whether continued driving may be risky

Continuing to drive with genuinely low oil pressure can cause serious engine damage within minutes. Pull over safely as soon as possible and turn off the engine.

What a technician may inspect

Once stopped, wait a few minutes and check the oil level on level ground. If the level was low, topping up may clear the light — but find out why it was low. If the level looks normal and the light stays on, don't drive further: have the vehicle towed so a technician can check the oil pump and pressure sensor.

Related vehicle systems

Engine

This is general guidance, not a diagnosis — your owner's manual is the final word for your specific model, and a qualified technician should confirm the actual cause.