It’s Wednesday afternoon, and it’s time for your weekly grocery shopping. You unlock your car door, get in the driver’s seat, and the oil light begins to flicker once you turn the engine on. What should you do now?
First, relax. The light shows you that the engine system is working just fine and calling for your attention. It shows that the engine system detects how old your engine oil is depending on the mileage and it is telling you that it’s time to replace the oil.
Depending on your car, there may be an oil change dashboard light and a different light for indicating the engine oil pressure. The oil change light is the most frequently seen. Most of the dashboard lights will display for a few seconds on ignition. Then they go off.
If any of the lights remain on after starting the car, other parts may need your attention. For instance, if the change oil light stays on after starting, it is time to change both the engine oil and the oil filter in your car.
Engine Oil
The engine oil in your car and the oil filter is changed periodically during minor car service. Other things, such as the air filter and radiator coolant, are also changed.
Most cars are scheduled for service around the 5000 to 8000 km mark after the last one. While your engine oil can go further, especially in newer models, when the change oil light comes on, it is time to do something about it.
The only way to clear it is to change the engine oil and the oil filter. You can actually do it yourself or go to your favourite service station or bring it to the experts at Valvoline Brampton for service. You can also save with oil change coupons from Valvoline Brampton.
Oil Pressure
The oil pressure light indicates a decrease in engine oil pressure. Similarly, the oil pressure light should be attended to as soon as possible. Acting quickly prevents damage to your engine. This is caused by additional friction in moving parts and excess heat in the engine block.
How Do You Deal These With Dashboard Lights?
The first step is to get your vehicle off the road. Pull to the side in a safe place and switch off the car. Unlock and open the hood.
Then, check the engine oil level using the dipstick. The dipstick has two indicators on it for ‘Full’ and ‘Low.’ If the oil does not reach the spot marked ‘Full’ on the dipstick, it is low. Inspect the engine area more carefully for signs of oil leakage.
You may need to consult a professional to service your car if indeed, you notice external oil leakage. The issue may be related to worn-out seals in the oil system.
- Change The Engine Oil
Find the right type of oil for your car and fill it up. Measure again with the dipstick to ensure the oil reaches the ‘Full’ level. Start the car’s engine and allow it to idle for a short while. The change oil light should disappear.
- Reset The Dashboard Light
Once the oil change light is gone, reset the system to restart the countdown again. Do this manually through the instrument panel. If something seems amiss or if you do not know how to do this, contact Valvoline Brampton for help.
Always Pay Attention To The Dashboard Lights
Servicing your car regularly, including oil and filter changes, ensures your car gives you the best performance for a longer period. It is also required in order to continue receiving warranty support from your vehicle manufacturer.
Valvoline Brampton’s experts will help you select the appropriate motor oil for your car. This is based on your car manufacturer’s preferences. They will also recommend a schedule for an oil change. Having a reminder is a great way to ensure you don’t skip an important car service date.
Dashboard lights serve as a notification of what is happening in your car engine. Act quickly anytime you see the change oil light in your car. Pull into the nearest Valvoline Brampton’s and avoid getting stuck down the road.