Why is my oil light only coming on while idling?
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Asked by Owen
I’m wondering if it’s common for the oil light in my 2018 Kia Carnival to come on when sitting and idling but to go away when revs go up and the oil is full. Would this mean my oil pressure sensor is stuffed?
Answered by CarsGuide
26 Nov 2024While not a common problem, this could be caused by a faulty oil pressure sensor. But it’s important to have this checked out by a mechanic because you could be dealing with an engine that really is suffering from low oil pressure. If the latter is the case, you risk doing permanent and catastrophic damage to the engine because the oil pressure is insufficient to fully protect the internal parts of the engine.
The reason you’re seeing the light come on when the engine is idling (and presumably at operating temperature) is because this is when the engine’s oil pressure is at its lowest. When you rev the engine, the oil pump turns faster, creating more oil pressure. When the engine speed drops again, the pump slows, the oil pressure falls and the warning light switches on.
By having the actual oil pressure checked at a workshop with an independent gauge (separate to the one in the car) you’ll know if the light is coming on because of a duff sensor or because the oil pressure really is too low.
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