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Oil pressure warning light: what it means and what to do

Red oil can symbol

Stop nowPull over safely as soon as you can and get help.

The engine has lost oil pressure. Stop as soon as it's safe and switch the engine off. Driving on with low oil pressure can wreck an engine within minutes.

What it means

Oil keeps the engine's moving parts apart. This light means the oil isn't reaching them at the right pressure, because the oil is low, the pump is failing, or there's a leak.

Can I keep driving?

No. Stop and switch off. Only drive on if the oil is topped up and the light stays off.

What to do now

  1. Pull over safely and turn the engine off.
  2. Wait a few minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick.
  3. If it's low, top it up with the oil your handbook lists. If the light comes back on, don't drive. Call for roadside help.

Common causes

  • Low oil level from a leak or burning oil
  • A worn oil pump
  • A blocked oil filter or pickup
  • A faulty pressure sensor

Shops near you that can check this

Closest first. Your location stays on your phone.

Car Lab

Auckland CBD

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

M Tech

Henderson

Mechanics

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AZ Autos

Papatoetoe

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AB Autos

Panmure

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

Fredco

Kingsland

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

VIRLTD

Onehunga

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

See all mechanics in this suburb

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive with the oil pressure warning light on?

No. Stop and switch off. Only drive on if the oil is topped up and the light stays off.

What does the oil pressure warning light mean?

The engine has lost oil pressure. Stop as soon as it's safe and switch the engine off. Driving on with low oil pressure can wreck an engine within minutes.

What should I do when the oil pressure warning light comes on?

Pull over safely and turn the engine off. Wait a few minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. If it's low, top it up with the oil your handbook lists. If the light comes back on, don't drive. Call for roadside help.

Need a tow? Call now

If anyone is hurt or you're in danger, call 111 first. Get off the road and wait behind the barrier.

Call AA Roadservice 0800 500 222

Members and non-members can call. Have your location and rego ready.

Other numbers to try

  • Your insurer's roadside line. Many policies include a free tow, and it's on your policy card or app.
  • Your car maker's roadside assistance, if the car is new enough.
  • A local tow company. Search "tow truck" with your suburb, and ask the price before you agree.

Need it fixed after? Find a shop near you and call them.

Book

What for?

Free to book. The shop texts to confirm, and gives you a written quote before any work.