Red oil pressure light means stop now; amber oil level means top up soon. How to check and top up your oil safely.
Looking for more detail? Our full guide covers this topic in depth, with step-by-step advice and sources.
Many cars have two separate oil warnings. Mixing them up can be an expensive mistake.
Oil pressure: red oil can
This means the engine has lost oil pressure. Stop as soon as it is safe and switch off. Running without oil pressure can wreck an engine in minutes.
Oil level: amber, often an oil can with a wavy line or MIN
The oil level is getting low. It is not an emergency, but top up soon with the correct oil grade.
How to check your oil
- Park on level ground and wait a few minutes after switching off (or follow your handbook: some say check warm).
- Pull out the dipstick, wipe it, push it fully back in and pull it out again.
- The level should be between the MIN and MAX marks.
- Some cars have no dipstick and show the level on the dashboard menu instead.
Do not overfill
Too much oil can cause damage too. Add a little at a time and recheck.
Using the right oil
Your handbook lists the specification, such as a viscosity grade (for example 5W-30) and a maker approval code. Using the wrong oil can affect the engine and the DPF on diesels.
If you keep needing to top up
Burning or leaking oil is a sign of wear or a fault. Look for blue exhaust smoke or oil drips, and get it checked.
Sources and further reading
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.