| A low pressure gauge is a device specifically designed | | | | However if the problem is excessive oil burning (can |
| to provide accurate and precise readings of low oil | | | | be seen as blue smoke from the exhaust), the |
| pressure levels in your engine. Not all makes and | | | | engine's valves, bearings, or seals might already be |
| models of auto are fitted with an oil pressure gauge | | | | worn out, thus requiring new replacements. With the |
| on the dashboard but those that aren't will still usually | | | | help of a wet compression or leak down test, you |
| have a warning light that first flickers and then shows | | | | can determine whether a valve or seal has already |
| a constant red light when your oil pressure falls below | | | | deteriorated. You can tend to the problem by |
| an acceptable level. If your pressure gauge warning | | | | changing the valve guide seals with new ones, but if |
| light is flashing, it is an indication that the oil pressure | | | | ramshackle rings and cylinders is the main cause, you |
| is alarmingly low. | | | | might need a total overhaul. |
| Hence, to help you diagnose what is causing the | | | | When you get an abnormal pressure reading, one of |
| sudden drop on oil pressure, here is some useful | | | | the first things to check is the oil filter. Unusual low |
| information that may assist to locate the problem. A | | | | pressure readings can often be the result of a |
| good and simple way to diagnose whether the low oil | | | | clogged filter. If this is the case, you may have to |
| pressure has been caused simply by a low oil level is | | | | clean the filter to free the accumulated gunk, or in |
| to use a dipstick. To do this, use the dipstick to | | | | more severe cases, you may have to replace it. This |
| determine if the oil in the engine is within the | | | | is not normally an expensive operation and if you find |
| appropriate fill level (it should be neither too low nor | | | | that replacing the filter fixes the problem, it should |
| too full). Remove the dipstick, wipe it on a rag then | | | | make you happy that you found an affordable |
| simply replace it and remove it again to get an | | | | solution. However, if the problem persists, it is time |
| accurate reading. | | | | to call for professional help. |
| The fast remedy for a low oil level reading is just to | | | | These are just some of the reasons why you might |
| top it up, but if this happens repeatedly you will need | | | | get low pressure gauge readings. Therefore to help |
| to check for oil leaks or bearing damage. When | | | | you monitor any future drastic changes on oil |
| buying motor oil always check that it is the correct | | | | pressure, make sure you have an efficient pressure |
| type and viscosity for your engine. If oil leakage is | | | | gauge system installed and easily visible on your |
| found, it is advised that you purchase new gaskets | | | | dashboard where you can keep an eye on it. |
| to efficiently address the problem. | | | | |