Can an Oil Change Cause the Engine Light to Come On?

Maintaining your car is essential to keep it running smoothly. One of the most important parts of car maintenance is getting regular oil changes. But what happens when you get an oil change, and the engine light comes on? Can an oil change cause the engine light to come on? In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind the engine light coming on after an oil change.

The Role of the Engine Oil

Before we delve into the reasons behind the engine light coming on after an oil change, it’s important to understand the role of the engine oil in your car. The engine oil is a lubricant that is used to reduce friction between the moving parts of the engine. It also helps to cool the engine by dissipating heat and prevents corrosion by neutralizing acids that can form in the engine.

Over time, the engine oil can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and other contaminants. This can cause the oil to break down and lose its ability to lubricate the engine effectively. When this happens, the engine can become damaged, and the car’s performance can be affected.

Regular oil changes are essential to keep the engine oil clean and prevent engine damage. The recommended frequency of oil changes varies depending on the car manufacturer and driving conditions. Generally, it’s recommended to get an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for most cars. However, it’s always best to check the owner’s manual for the recommended oil change intervals for your specific car model.

If the engine oil is not changed regularly or if there is a leak, it can cause the engine light to come on. The engine light is an indicator that something is wrong with the engine, and it’s essential to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Why the Engine Light Comes On After an Oil Change?

While getting an oil change is a routine maintenance task, it can sometimes lead to unexpected issues such as the engine light coming on. Here are some of the reasons why the engine light may come on after an oil change:

Loose or Damaged Oil Cap: One of the most common reasons why the engine light comes on after an oil change is a loose or damaged oil cap. If the oil cap is not properly tightened or is damaged, oil can leak out, which can trigger the engine light. This is an easy fix and can be resolved by simply tightening or replacing the oil cap.
Wrong Type of Oil: Using the wrong type of oil can also cause the engine light to come on after an oil change. The engine oil must meet the car manufacturer’s specifications in terms of viscosity and performance. If the wrong oil viscosity or type is used, it can cause the engine to malfunction, leading to the engine light coming on.
Oil Filter Issue: Another reason why the engine light may come on after an oil change is an issue with the oil filter. If the oil filter is not properly installed or is damaged, it can cause oil to leak out, which can trigger the engine light.
Oil Pressure Sensor Failure: The oil pressure sensor is responsible for monitoring the engine oil pressure. If the oil pressure sensor fails or malfunctions, it can cause the engine light to come on.
Other Engine Issues: While rare, it’s possible that an oil change may reveal other underlying engine issues that were previously unnoticed. In such cases, the engine light may come on after an oil change due to these underlying issues.

The engine light coming on after an oil change can be caused by a variety of reasons. It’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further engine damage.

How to Fix the Issue?

If the engine light comes on after an oil change, the first thing you should do is check the oil level and the oil cap. If the oil level is low or the oil cap is loose or damaged, you can fix the issue by adding oil or replacing the oil cap. Once you’ve fixed the issue, you can drive your car for a short distance to see if the engine light turns off. If the engine light doesn’t turn off, there may be a more serious issue that requires professional attention.

If the engine light still comes on after checking the oil level and the oil cap, you should take your car to a mechanic. They will use a diagnostic tool to identify the issue and fix it. The diagnostic tool will provide error codes that will help the mechanic identify the issue quickly and accurately.

If the issue is a faulty oil pressure sensor, the mechanic may replace it. If it’s an oil filter issue, they may replace the oil filter. If the issue is related to the wrong type of oil, the mechanic will drain the incorrect oil and replace it with the correct one. In some cases, there may be other engine issues that require more extensive repairs.

In conclusion, if the engine light comes on after an oil change, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. While some issues such as a loose or damaged oil cap are easy fixes, others may require professional attention. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep your car running smoothly and prevent costly engine damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an oil change is a routine maintenance task that is essential for keeping your car’s engine running smoothly. While it’s a straightforward process, it can sometimes lead to unexpected issues such as the engine light coming on. The engine light may come on after an oil change due to a loose or damaged oil cap, using the wrong type of oil, an oil filter issue, oil pressure sensor failure, or other underlying engine issues. It’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further engine damage. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly repairs in the future. Remember to always consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change intervals for your specific car model and use the recommended oil viscosity and performance.

See the video below for more explanation

FAQs

Can I still drive my car if the engine light comes on after an oil change? It depends on the cause of the issue. If the engine light comes on due to a loose or damaged oil cap or low oil level, you can fix the issue and drive your car for a short distance to see if the engine light turns off. However, if the issue is more serious, it’s best to have your car inspected by a mechanic and avoid driving it until the issue is resolved.
How often should I get an oil change for my car? The frequency of oil changes depends on the car manufacturer’s recommendations and your driving habits. In general, most cars require an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, some cars may require more frequent oil changes, especially if you drive in severe conditions such as extreme temperatures or dusty environments. Check your car owner’s manual for the recommended oil change intervals.
Can using the wrong type of oil damage my engine? Yes, using the wrong type of oil can cause engine damage. The engine oil must meet the car manufacturer’s specifications in terms of viscosity and performance. If the wrong oil viscosity or type is used, it can cause the engine to malfunction, leading to costly engine damage.
How do I know if my oil pressure sensor is failing? If your oil pressure sensor is failing, you may notice the engine light coming on, low oil pressure readings on the dashboard, or unusual engine noises. It’s best to have your car inspected by a mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue.
How can I prevent engine light issues after an oil change? To prevent engine light issues after an oil change, use the recommended oil viscosity and type for your car, check the oil level and oil cap after an oil change, and have your car regularly inspected by a mechanic for any underlying engine issues. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly engine damage.