carcrisis.com TM
Consumer question:
Whenever my engine is warm, the oil light blinks. This happens especially when I brake or am at idle. The oil level looks fine. I don't understand it, what could be wrong?
The Professor says:
Anytime an oil light blinks you should think twice about driving the car any further. There's just something about a lack of lubrication that engines don't like.
It sounds as if your oil pump is getting old. Once your engine is wound up, the oil pump is alert and able to do its job. However, as soon as the engine slows down, the pump falls asleep and oil pressure drops. This is especially true with a warm engine, when the heated oil is less viscous, or thinned.
You might just need a new oil pressure sending unit or an oil change, but I doubt it. A simple oil pressure test will help make the diagnosis. If the oil pump does require attention, the condition of your main and rod bearings should be inspected as well. Worn bearings will only make a bad situation worse. Most shops can help you with this concern. Good luck.
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