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If you’re driving along and notice that the oil pressure gauge lamp warning indicator has become illuminated then you need to take immediate action. This will have been triggered by the oil pressure gauge sender unit detecting a fall in pressure. If you’re not too far away from home to get the car back there then do it. If you’re on a long trip it’s a good idea to get to a service station or somewhere you can safely pull over for some time. Once stationery let the car’s engine cool down before checking the oil level.

The next step is to measure the level of oil using the dipstick. You can find this under the bonnet; it is a long rod which goes down a long tube and into the oil pan. Pull the dipstick out and clean it first using a paper towel or rag. Then push it back in all the way and turn the screw cap so the stick goes as far into the oil pan as it can. When you remove the stick again it will show the level of oil. The bottom of the dipstick has two engraved markers to show the minimum and minimum acceptable level of oil. If the level is low top it up using the type of oil the car manufacturer recommends. If you’re not sure what this is then check in the owners handbook.  There are many reasons why the oil level might have fallen. You could have a leak, check for oil underneath the car or where you usually park the car. Leaks can also happen inside the engine, for example, oil can leak into the coolant supply or even into the combustion chamber where the oil is burnt. You can tell this type of leak from the blue smoke that comes out of the exhaust.

If in any doubt seek professional advice. The oil pressure gauge guide site has more information about cars and motor oil.