The oil pressure gauge (or the low oil idiot light depending on model) just give an indication if there is a problem with the engine. A low reading on the gauge means low oil pressure. This could be from low oil, a bad oil pump, or numerous other reasons. An idiot light (actually called indicator light) is called an idiot light because when it comes on it usually means "congratulations idiot, you just destroyed your engine". (It comes on before you start the engine as a test to show you it works then goes off as the engine builds the oil pressure to normal levels.)You check the oil level by reading the dip stick to see how much oil is in the car and you change it according to mileage and time. Normally every 3000 miles or 3 months whichever comes first. With the engine off, but warm, find the dip stick, pull it out of the tube, wipe it off and look at the marks on it. The one closest to the bottom is the low mark and the other is the high mark. Put it fully back into the tube, remove it again and look at how high the oil is on the stick. If it is between the 2 lines, OK, but always try to have the oil level even with the top line, but not above it for best engine operation. Note that some sticks actually have add and full stamped into the metal by the lines.If you just bought the car, get the oil and oil filter changed and write down the mileage. Then start from that point. Never believe someone when they say "just had it changed". Engines are expensive to replace and oil problems can kill them quickly.
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25 Jun 2009, 05:46 pm
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