Your car’s oil light turning on is an indication that there is a problem with the engine’s oil system. To prevent possible engine damage, it’s crucial to pay attention to this warning light and deal with the problem as soon as you can. When you brake, for example, the oil light might turn on. The importance of the oil light, possible causes of the oil light turning on when braking and steps you can take to identify and fix the issue are all covered in this article.
Understanding the Oil Light
Your car’s oil light acts as a reminder to check and replace your oil. When the light turns on, it means that the engine’s oil pressure has fallen below a certain point. This may occur for a number of reasons, including low oil levels, an issue with the oil pump, or a clogged oil filter. Low oil pressure can result in engine damage, so it’s critical to address the problem as soon as you can.
There are various oil light types that can appear in a car. Some cars have an oil can-shaped warning light, while others might just have one that says “oil” or “check the oil.” Some automobiles even have a mix of the two kinds of lights. The message is the same regardless of the type of light: there is an issue with the oil system that needs to be fixed right away.
Importance of timely attention to the oil light
Your engine could experience serious issues if you ignore the oil light. Low oil pressure indicates that the engine is not receiving the necessary lubrication to operate properly. This may result in heat and friction, which can harm the internal engine components. A lack of lubrication can also cause the engine to seize, necessitating expensive repairs or even an engine replacement.
Causes of the Oil Light Coming On When Braking
Low Oil Levels
Low oil levels are one of the most frequent causes of the oil light coming on when braking. If the oil level is low, the engine does not have enough oil to maintain the recommended oil pressure. This may occur for a number of reasons, including leaks, burning oil, or insufficient oil changes. It’s crucial to regularly check the oil level and add oil as necessary.
Oil Pump Failure
A malfunctioning oil pump is another potential reason why the oil light comes on when braking. Oil must be pumped through the engine by the oil pump in order to lubricate its internal components. The oil light may turn on if the oil pressure drops as a result of the pump not functioning properly. Low oil pressure, a loud engine noise, and a lack of lubrication for the engine are signs of an oil pump that is failing.
Worn out Oil Filter
The oil light that comes on when braking can also be caused by a worn-out oil filter. As the oil travels through the engine, the oil filter is in charge of filtering out impurities. The oil light may turn on and the oil pressure may drop if the filter becomes clogged, restricting the flow of oil. Low oil pressure, poor engine performance, and a lack of lubrication are signs of a worn-out oil filter.
Oil Leak
Another possible explanation for the oil light turning on while braking is an oil leak. Oil leaks can occur for a number of reasons, including damaged gaskets, worn-out seals, or a crack in the oil pan.
There is probably an oil leak somewhere in the engine if the oil level is dropping quickly. As a result of the oil being lost, braking may result in the oil light turning on. Low oil levels, engine oil on the ground, and a burning oil odor are signs of an oil leak.
Diagnosis and Repair
A mechanic will typically start by checking the oil level and adding oil if necessary in order to determine the cause of the oil light coming on while braking. They will then look for leaks or burning oil if the oil level is low. The mechanic will then examine the oil pump and filter to see if they are functioning properly and if there are no leaks or burning oil. In some instances, the issue might be a gasket or seal that needs to be replaced because it is worn out.
The right repairs can be made once the issue’s root cause has been identified. To do this, you might add oil, change the oil pump or filter, or fix an oil leak. To prevent possible engine damage, it’s crucial to have the issue fixed as soon as possible.
Importance of Proper Maintenance
In order to stop the oil light from turning on while braking, proper maintenance is essential. This entails performing routine maintenance on the vehicle, such as checking the oil level and changing the oil and filter as directed by the manufacturer. It’s also crucial to pay attention to the oil light and fix any problems as soon as they appear.
The oil light is a crucial warning system that informs the driver of problems with the engine oil system, to sum up. When the oil light illuminates while braking, there is an issue with the oil pressure. Low oil levels, a failing oil pump, a worn-out oil filter, and oil leaks are common reasons why the oil light comes on when braking.
To prevent possible engine damage, the problem needs to be fixed as soon as possible. Regular oil changes and attention to the oil light, along with proper maintenance, can help stop the oil light from turning on while braking.