Glossary / Engine

oil light

15 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

If the oil light turns on in your car, it means the engine might not be getting enough oil. You should check the oil level or get a mechanic to look at it.

Technical Definition

The oil light is a warning indicator on the dashboard that illuminates when the engine oil pressure drops below safe levels, signaling potential engine damage.

Hear It Discussed

"First of all, the oil light is not telling you how much oil you have. So if the oil light comes on, it can come on for various reasons."
#2607: House Call The Best of Car Talk 06:05

"So like a racing car, if you've been in a racing car which has a shift light and an oil light, and all the big lights which you need to keep an eye on,"
OTOSOT 95 Smith and Sniff 19:43

"And he was driving home from work one night, and the oil light came on, he stopped, opened up the hood"
Engine Oil 101: Expert Car Maintenance Advice from Quaker State + BMW 550e review The Car Doctor Podcast 34:11