* Low Oil Pressure: The most immediate concern is the low oil pressure indicated by the light. This means your engine isn't getting enough lubrication. Running an engine with low oil pressure will cause catastrophic damage very quickly. DO NOT attempt to start the engine again. Low oil could be from a leak, a failed oil pump, or very low oil level.
* Rod Knock (Clacking Sound): The clacking sound is a very bad sign. It often indicates a connecting rod bearing has failed due to lack of lubrication (from the low oil pressure). This will severely damage your engine.
* Battery Light: While it might be related to the low oil pressure, the battery light could also mean a failing alternator, a bad battery connection, or even a more severe electrical problem.
What to do IMMEDIATELY:
1. Do NOT start the car. Attempting to start it again will likely cause irreversible engine damage.
2. Have it towed. Call a tow truck to take the vehicle to a qualified mechanic or repair shop.
3. Check the oil level (carefully). Once the car is safely stopped, check your dipstick to see if the oil level is extremely low. This might give the mechanic a clue about the cause. Be cautious, the engine might be hot.
Possible Causes (that a mechanic will need to diagnose):
* Low Oil Level: Simply needing an oil change is unlikely to cause a sudden clacking sound unless the engine was already severely damaged, but it's important to rule this out.
* Oil Pump Failure: The oil pump is responsible for circulating oil. If it fails, the engine will be starved of lubrication.
* Damaged Connecting Rod Bearings: This is a serious internal engine problem caused by low oil pressure. It will likely require a major engine repair or replacement.
* Alternator Failure: This is less critical in the immediate sense than the low oil pressure, but still needs attention.
Ignoring this problem will lead to a very expensive engine repair or even a total engine failure. Get it towed immediately to a mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.
