Many drivers don’t think about something like oil pressure very much. However, low oil pressure can cause significant problems in your car because without a high enough oil pressure, your engine isn’t protected against the wear and tear of everyday driving. In addition, low oil pressure can lead to severe engine damage if ignored for too long, so knowing what causes it is key to keeping your engine healthy. Use this guide to discover five of the most common causes of low oil pressure in your car.
Low Oil Level
One common cause of low oil pressure has a low oil level. If your engine is running low on oil, it can’t lubricate itself properly, leading to engine trouble. Have your mechanic check your oil level regularly and top it off if necessary. Also, have your mechanic inspect your car’s engine for oil leaks and repair them if necessary.
Dirty Oil Filter
Another common cause of low oil pressure is a dirty oil filter. When the filter becomes clogged, it doesn’t allow the oil to flow freely through the engine. This can lead to a drop in pressure and eventually cause engine trouble. To avoid this, be sure to bring your car in for oil changes at the recommended intervals, and your technician will change the oil filter as part of the oil change service.
Incorrect Oil Viscosity
Another possible cause of low oil pressure is using the wrong oil viscosity for your car. If you use an oil that’s too thick, it won’t flow as easily and can cause engine trouble. Not only will this lead to low oil pressure, but it can also cause engine damage. Make sure you get a record of what oil is being put into your car during service so you can be sure it matches your car’s specifications.
Failing Oil Pump
One of the more common causes of low oil pressure is a failing oil pump. The oil pump is responsible for circulating oil throughout the engine; if it’s not working correctly, the engine won’t get the lubrication it needs. This can lead to engine trouble, from decreased performance to complete engine failure. If you suspect your oil pump is failing, have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Faulty Oil Sensing Unit
A faulty oil sensing unit can sometimes be the cause of low oil pressure readings. If this unit isn’t working correctly, it can cause the oil pressure gauge to give false readings. In some cases, the oil pressure warning light may also come on. If you suspect your oil sensing unit is faulty, have it checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Low oil pressure is a sure sign of a problem with your car’s engine that you should not ignore. If your car’s oil pressure gauge is low or a warning light is active, immediately bring your vehicle in for service. Driving your car with improper lubrication will damage your car’s engine and lead to an expensive repair bill.
