Red Oil Can Warning Light on Dashboard

The appearance of a red oil can symbol on the vehicle dashboard indicates the engine oil pressure warning light. When this light appears, it signifies abnormal engine oil pressure or critically low oil levels in the engine.

There are five primary reasons for the oil can warning light illumination:

1. If the oil can light flashes or remains constantly lit, immediately pull over and switch off the engine to prevent further damage. Check whether the oil level is below the minimum marker.

Solution: Top up engine oil if levels are low. If oil levels are adequate, seek immediate inspection at a 4S dealership or authorised repair centre.

1. Insufficient engine oil volume, resulting in low oil pressure.

Solution: Promptly replenish engine oil.

1. Contaminated or overly viscous oil preventing proper circulation by the oil pump, causing low or absent oil pressure.

Solution: Complete oil change required.

1. Overly thin engine oil leaking through engine bearing clearances, leading to low oil pressure.

Solution: Oil replacement or cooling system inspection necessary.

1. Oil pipe leaks, faulty oil pump, or excessive component wear (e.g., excessive crankshaft bearing clearance). Failed pressure relief valves due to weak springs or damaged valve balls can also reduce oil circulation, resulting in low or no oil pressure.

Solution: Replacement of oil pipes, oil pump, or affected components required.