Maintenance
Yellow and red oil warning lights: how to tell them apart
Symbols and colours vary by model, but a red oil-pressure warning means you should stop as soon as it is safe and switch off the engine.
Do not confuse a level or maintenance reminder with a low oil-pressure warning. Read the handbook and do not continue with a red warning.
Identify the message before acting
Oil warning lights do not mean the same thing in every car. A red symbol may indicate a pressure problem, while an amber warning may refer to the level or a check that is needed; the dashboard legend and the model’s handbook are decisive. Do not rely only on a colour seen in another car or an online icon.
If the handbook says the warning indicates low pressure, pull over safely and switch off the engine as soon as possible. Continuing to run it can cause serious damage. Do not try to drive to a garage with the warning active unless the manufacturer explicitly says otherwise. Call for assistance and describe the symbol, message and circumstances in which it appeared.
Level and pressure are different
After stopping and switching off the vehicle, check only what the handbook allows, under the stated conditions, such as waiting and parking on level ground. If it says to check the level, use the dipstick or electronic system as instructed and top up only with oil of the specified grade. Do not open the cap on hot components or pour in a product chosen at random.
A seemingly correct level does not rule out a pressure or sensor problem. If the warning stays on or returns, or the engine makes unusual noises, do not restart it to test. Diagnosis must distinguish between oil level, a leak, pressure and an electrical fault.
After the technical inspection
Keep details of recent servicing, any top-ups and the road conditions. Ask the garage to explain the cause and the oil specification used; do not clear the message before diagnosis.
A red oil-can warning indicating low pressure means you should stop as soon as it is safe and switch off the engine: do not drive on to the garage. Wait and check the level only if you can do so safely; adding oil will not fix a pressure fault. If the warning remains on, call for assistance.
Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers theory chapters, timed exam quizzes and review of mistakes; to interpret a warning light, consult your vehicle handbook and roadside assistance.
Frequently asked questions
Can I always continue driving with a yellow oil warning?
Not automatically. Check the handbook and take account of any symptoms or additional messages.
Should I add oil immediately when the red warning comes on?
First stop safely and switch off the engine. A pressure warning calls for assistance, not a blind top-up.