* Low oil pressure: This is the most common cause. Even if you have the correct amount of oil, the oil pump might be failing, the oil filter might be clogged, or there could be a leak somewhere in the system preventing sufficient oil pressure. Driving with low oil pressure will quickly damage your engine.
* Faulty oil pressure sending unit: This is a less serious (but still concerning) possibility. The sending unit is a sensor that tells the light when oil pressure is low. If it's malfunctioning, it could be sending a false signal even if the pressure is fine. However, it's still best to check the oil pressure with a gauge to rule out the more serious issue of actual low pressure.
* Worn-out oil pump: The oil pump is responsible for circulating the oil. If it's worn out, it might not be able to pump oil efficiently enough, resulting in low oil pressure.
* Clogged oil filter or passages: A clogged oil filter restricts oil flow. Similarly, sludge buildup or other debris in the engine's oil passages can severely restrict oil flow, leading to low pressure.
* Leaking oil: While you've checked the level, a leak *could* be present but the level simply hasn't dropped significantly yet.
What to do:
1. DO NOT drive the car. Continuing to drive with the oil light on will almost certainly cause catastrophic engine damage.
2. Have the oil pressure checked with a mechanical gauge. This is crucial to determine if the problem is actually low oil pressure or a faulty sensor. A mechanic can do this easily and accurately. Don't rely on the light alone.
3. If the oil pressure is low, immediate professional attention is required. This is a serious problem that necessitates a thorough diagnosis to identify and repair the underlying cause.
Ignoring the oil light is incredibly risky and expensive. The cost of repairing an engine damaged by low oil pressure will far exceed the cost of diagnosing and fixing the problem now.
