Blog

That small oil can icon glowing on your dashboard might seem easy to ignore, especially if your car is running fine. But when your oil light comes on, it's one warning you should never dismiss. If you drive a Chevy Silverado, an Equinox, or any other vehicle around Lebanon, Oregon, understanding what this light means - and how to respond - could save you from a costly engine repair. What to Do the Moment Your Oil Light Comes On The first thing to do is stay calm, but act quickly. Pull off the road safely and turn off your engine as soon as you can. Do not continue driving if the light remains on, especially if you notice any change in engine sound or performance. more Once parked, check your oil level using the dipstick. If the level is low, adding the correct type of oil may resolve the issue temporarily. However, this is not a permanent fix. You should still have your vehicle inspected by a certified technician as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause. Can You Wait, or Does It Need Immediate Attention? This is one of the most common questions drivers have, and the honest answer is: do not wait. Low oil pressure is a serious condition that can cause significant engine damage within minutes of driving. If the oil light comes on while you are on the highway, reduce speed and get to safety promptly. Continuing to drive with low oil pressure risks scoring the cylinder walls, damaging the crankshaft bearings, and ultimately seizing the engine entirely. The repair cost in those cases is far greater than a routine oil service. Think of the oil light on as your engine's distress signal. The faster you respond, the better chance you have of avoiding major damage. Common Causes of the Oil Light Coming On Understanding what triggers the oil light can help you address the root problem. Here are some of the most frequent causes: A low oil level is the most straightforward culprit. Oil can be lost through slow leaks, worn seals, or normal consumption over time. If you have not had an oil change recently, this is often the first thing to check. A failing oil pump is another serious cause. The pump is responsible for circulating oil throughout the engine. If it is not working properly, pressure drops and the light activates even if the oil level appears normal. A clogged oil filter can also restrict flow and trigger the warning. This is another reason regular maintenance is important. Finally, using the wrong oil viscosity for your engine can affect pressure readings. Always consult your owner's manual or a trusted technician for the right specification. Visit Primasing Motors Inc. for a Certified Oil Inspection If your oil light has recently come on, do not put it off. Drivers throughout Lebanon, OR can count on Primasing Motors Inc. for fast, reliable service on oil inspections, oil changes, and full engine diagnostics.

Oil changes are one of the most important aspects of keeping your Chevrolet running smoothly and reliably. Regularly changing your engine oil reduces friction, manages heat, and removes debris, helping to prevent costly engine damage. At Primasing Motors Inc. in Lebanon, OR, we provide professional oil change services for all Chevy models, including the Silverado, Tahoe, and Equinox, ensuring your vehicle stays in top condition What Oil Does in Your Vehicle Engine oil lubricates the moving parts inside an engine. This reduces friction and stops components from grinding together. Oil also helps manage engine heat and removes debris. Many Chevy engines use synthetic oil to protect parts in different temperatures. Why Regular Oil Changes Are Necessary Engine oil loses its effectiveness over time. It becomes thick and holds contaminants like dust and metal particles. Old oil cannot lubricate parts correctly. This leads to heat and wear. A routine oil change removes old oil and adds fresh oil to protect the engine. more How Often You Should Schedule Oil Changes Service intervals depend on the vehicle and driving conditions. Many Chevrolet models using full synthetic oil require a change every 7500 to 10000 miles. Some vehicles may need service every 5000 miles. Owners should use the oil life monitoring system to track when service is needed. What to Do If Your Oil Light Comes On A dashboard oil light indicates low oil levels or low oil pressure. This situation requires immediate attention to prevent engine damage. Drivers should pull over and turn off the engine. Check the oil level with a dipstick and add oil if the level is low. Understanding the Types of Oil There are several types of motor oil available for different engines. Conventional oil is refined from crude oil and is often used for older vehicles. Synthetic oil offers better protection and lasts longer. High-mileage oil is for vehicles with over 75000 miles. Blend oil mixes conventional and synthetic options. Primasing Motors Inc. in Lebanon, OR offers professional oil change services for all Chevy models. Our technicians use the correct oil and filters for the Silverado, Tahoe, and Equinox. Maintaining a regular schedule helps protect your vehicle investment.