The check engine light is one of the most frustrating and mysterious issues that can occur in a vehicle. It can pop up at any time, without warning, and leave the driver feeling helpless and unsure of what to do. One of the most common causes of the check engine light is low engine oil, which can have serious consequences if left unchecked. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the relationship between low engine oil and the check engine light, and provide you with the information you need to diagnose and fix the issue.
Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine, lubricating its moving parts and keeping it running smoothly. Without enough oil, the engine can overheat, seize, and even fail, leading to costly repairs. The check engine light is designed to alert the driver to potential problems, and low engine oil is one of the most common causes of this light coming on.
So, why does low engine oil cause the check engine light to come on? The answer lies in the way the engine’s computer system, known as the Engine Control Module (ECM), monitors the engine’s performance. The ECM uses a network of sensors to monitor various parameters, including engine oil pressure, temperature, and other vital signs. If the engine oil pressure drops below a certain threshold, the ECM will trigger the check engine light to come on, alerting the driver to the problem.
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What Causes Low Engine Oil?
There are several reasons why engine oil levels can drop, including:
- Infrequent oil changes
- Oil leaks
- Excessive engine wear and tear
- Driving in extreme temperatures
- Using the wrong type of oil
Infrequent oil changes are one of the most common causes of low engine oil. If the oil is not changed regularly, it can break down and lose its lubricating properties, leading to a decrease in engine oil pressure. Oil leaks are another common cause of low engine oil, as they can allow oil to escape from the engine and drain onto the ground. Excessive engine wear and tear can also cause oil levels to drop, as the engine’s moving parts can wear down and create gaps that allow oil to escape.
Oil Leaks: A Common Cause of Low Engine Oil
Oil leaks are a common problem that can cause low engine oil levels. There are several types of oil leaks, including:
- Engine oil leaks
- Transmission oil leaks
- Drivetrain oil leaks
Engine oil leaks are the most common type of oil leak, and can occur due to a variety of reasons, including:
- Worn-out engine gaskets
- Loose or damaged oil drain plugs
- Cracked engine blocks
Transmission oil leaks can occur due to worn-out transmission seals or gaskets, while drivetrain oil leaks can occur due to worn-out drivetrain components, such as the driveshaft or axles.
Excessive Engine Wear and Tear: A Cause of Low Engine Oil
Excessive engine wear and tear can cause oil levels to drop, as the engine’s moving parts can wear down and create gaps that allow oil to escape. There are several types of engine wear and tear, including:
- Worn-out piston rings
- Worn-out cylinder walls
- Worn-out valve guides
Worn-out piston rings can cause oil to leak into the combustion chamber, while worn-out cylinder walls can cause oil to seep into the engine’s crankcase. Worn-out valve guides can cause oil to leak into the engine’s valve train.