Why does my Subaru oil light come on?
Seeing the oil light illuminate on your Subaru's dashboard can be alarming. This warning light is a critical indicator that something may be wrong with your vehicle's oil system, which is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly. In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons why your Subaru oil light might come on and what steps you should take to address the issue.
Common Reasons for the Oil Light to Come On
The oil light on your Subaru can be triggered by several factors. Understanding these causes can help you determine the severity of the issue and whether immediate action is required.
- Low Oil Level: If your engine oil level is too low, the oil light will come on to alert you. This could be due to a leak or simply because it’s time for an oil change.
- Oil Pressure Issues: The oil light may indicate low oil pressure, which can occur if the oil pump isn’t circulating oil properly or if there’s a blockage in the system.
- Faulty Oil Sensor: Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the oil itself but with the sensor that monitors oil pressure. A malfunctioning sensor can trigger the light unnecessarily.
- Dirty or Contaminated Oil: Over time, oil can become dirty or lose its viscosity, reducing its effectiveness in lubricating the engine. This can cause the oil light to come on.
- Engine Wear and Tear: Older engines may have worn components that lead to oil pressure drops, triggering the warning light.
Each of these issues requires attention, as ignoring the oil light can lead to severe engine damage. It’s always better to address the problem sooner rather than later.
Steps to Take When Your Subaru Oil Light Comes On
If your oil light comes on, follow these steps to ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive and to prevent potential engine damage:
- Pull Over Safely: As soon as it’s safe to do so, pull over and turn off your engine. Driving with the oil light on can cause significant damage to your engine.
- Check the Oil Level: Open the hood and use the dipstick to check your oil level. If it’s low, add the appropriate type of oil for your Subaru (refer to your owner’s manual).
- Inspect for Leaks: Look under your car for any signs of oil leaks. If you notice a puddle of oil, this could be the source of the problem.
- Restart the Engine: After adding oil, restart your engine to see if the light turns off. If it remains on, there may be a deeper issue.
- Visit a Mechanic: If the light persists or you’re unsure of the cause, take your Subaru to a trusted mechanic for a thorough inspection. They can diagnose and fix the issue to prevent further damage.
By following these steps, you can address the oil light issue promptly and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Preventing Future Oil Light Issues
Regular maintenance is key to preventing the oil light from coming on unexpectedly. Here are some tips to keep your Subaru’s oil system in top shape:
- Schedule regular oil changes as recommended in your owner’s manual.
- Use high-quality oil that meets Subaru’s specifications.
- Check your oil level periodically, especially before long trips.
- Address any oil leaks or unusual engine noises promptly.
- Have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic regularly.
By staying proactive with maintenance, you can ensure your Subaru runs smoothly and avoid the stress of unexpected oil light warnings.
Conclusion
The oil light on your Subaru is an important warning system that should never be ignored. Whether it’s due to low oil levels, pressure issues, or a faulty sensor, addressing the problem promptly can save you from costly engine repairs. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos for expert assistance. With proper care and attention, you can keep your Subaru running reliably for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What would be the first thing you check if the oil light came on?
First, safely pull your vehicle to the side of the road and turn off your engine. Next, find your vehicle's engine compartment (usually by opening the hood) and check the oil level. To do this, remove the dipstick, wipe it clean with a rag and then reinsert it into the engine and pull it back out to read its level.
Can I drive my Subaru with the oil light on?
Do Not Continue Driving. Whether it's a faulty sensor, low oil level, or low oil pressure, the best course of action is the same: stop driving as soon as you can safely do so after the oil warning light turns on. Oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine, so a problem with the oil can lead to massive damage.
Why is my oil light on but oil level fine?
Dirty engine oil and clogged oil filter
If you've checked your oil levels and they seem to be fine but the oil light is still on then is could just be that your engine oil is dirty – it has picked up too much rust, dirt and debris as it runs through the engine and is no longer able to function efficiently.
Can I drive with the oil warning light on?
No, you should not drive when the oil light is on. The oil light indicates that there is a problem with the engine's oil pressure or that the oil level is low. Continuing to drive under these conditions can lead to serious engine damage, as the engine may not be receiving adequate lubrication.
What are the symptoms of a failing oil pump?
Between moving parts which is why you're hearing the engine noise. The fourth symptom of a bad oil pump is a no start you'll crank the engine. But nothing happens. Now this doesn't occur to all cars.
Why is my Subaru oil light on?
An amber-colored oil light indicates the pressure of the oil system is low. Your Subaru engine may have a leak, or it may be burning a small amount of oil.
How much does it cost to replace an oil pressure sensor?
between $148 and $167
The average cost for an Oil Pressure Sensor Replacement is between $148 and $167. Labor costs are estimated between $75 and $95 while parts are typically priced around $72. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
Why is my oil light on if I have plenty of oil?
Potential wear and tear of the engine in main or big end bearings may cause oil pressure issues, leading to an illuminated oil light even if the oil levels are sufficient. If the problem occurs, contact a professional mechanic to get it sorted.
What triggers an oil light to come on?
The oil light comes on when the system detects an issue with your vehicle's oil pressure. If the oil pressure is too low, the oil will not flow through the engine properly. Your car engine needs continuous lubrication to run, so low oil pressure could seriously damage the engine—even causing it to seize up completely.
How many miles can you go after the oil light comes on?
If your oil light comes on, you should try to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Note, though, that driving around a bit more won't destroy anything. Generally speaking, you have about 2 weeks or 500 miles of driving before a flashing oil light turns into a legitimate problem.
