What Do You Do When Your Car Is Out of Oil?

If you discover your car is out of oil, the absolute first and most critical action is to immediately stop driving and turn off the engine. Do not attempt to restart it.

Immediate Actions When You Discover No Oil

Operating a car without engine oil is one of the most damaging things you can do to its engine. Oil is essential for lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, and dissipating heat. Without it, metal-on-metal contact will rapidly occur, leading to severe friction, overheating, and potentially catastrophic engine failure.

Here’s what you should do:

• Turn off the Engine Immediately: If you are driving and an oil pressure warning light illuminates or you hear unusual noises (like grinding or knocking), pull over safely and shut off the engine.
• Do Not Attempt to Restart: Even a brief period of running without oil can cause significant damage. Do not try to start the car to move it further, as this will only exacerbate the problem.
• Check the Dipstick: Open your hood and pull out the oil dipstick to confirm the oil level. If it's below the "add" or minimum mark, or if the dipstick is dry, your car is critically low or out of oil.

Why Running Without Oil Is Catastrophic

Engine oil performs vital functions, including:

• Lubrication: It creates a thin film between moving metal parts, preventing direct contact and reducing friction.
• Cooling: It helps carry heat away from critical engine components.
• Cleaning: It suspends contaminants and carries them to the oil filter.
• Sealing: It helps seal the piston rings against the cylinder walls.

Without oil, these functions cease, leading to:

• Increased Friction and Heat: Metal parts grind against each other, generating immense heat.
• Wear and Tear: Components like bearings, pistons, and camshafts rapidly wear down.
• Engine Seizure: The extreme heat and friction can cause parts to weld together, leading to the engine seizing and becoming inoperable. This often requires a complete engine replacement, which is a very costly repair.

Next Steps Based on Engine Status

The course of action depends critically on whether the engine has been running without oil.

If the Engine Has NOT Been Run Without Oil (or only for a very brief moment)

If you checked your oil before starting the car, or you immediately noticed the issue upon starting and shut it off, you might have avoided severe damage.

1. Add Appropriate Oil: Consult your car's owner's manual to determine the correct type and viscosity of engine oil. Carefully add oil until it reaches the proper level on the dipstick.
2. Check for Leaks: Before driving, inspect for any visible oil leaks under the car or around the engine. A sudden loss of oil usually indicates a leak.
3. Monitor Closely: Even after adding oil, drive carefully and monitor your oil levels frequently for the next few days. If the oil level drops again, you likely have a leak that needs professional attention.

If the Engine HAS Been Run Without Oil

If the engine has been running for any extended period (even a few minutes) without oil, it's highly probable that significant internal damage has occurred.

• Tow the car to a mechanic. If the engine has been running for an extended period without oil, it's best to tow the car to a mechanic. Running a car without oil can cause significant damage to the engine, and it's crucial to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle to determine the extent of the damage. Attempting to drive it further, even after adding oil, could worsen existing damage or cause complete engine failure. A professional mechanic can assess the extent of the damage to components like bearings, crankshaft, and cylinder walls, and advise on necessary repairs.

Preventing Future Oil Depletion

Regular maintenance is key to preventing your car from running out of oil:

• Regular Oil Checks: Check your oil level at least once a month, and always before a long trip. This simple habit can prevent major engine issues.
• Adhere to Oil Change Schedules: Follow your car manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals, usually found in your owner's manual.
• Address Leaks Promptly: If you notice oil spots under your car, or the oil light comes on frequently, get it inspected immediately. Small leaks can quickly become major problems.
• Pay Attention to Warning Lights: The oil pressure warning light on your dashboard is a critical indicator. Do not ignore it.

Summary of Actions

Here's a quick overview of what to do:

Engine Care