Q: I was driving and then all of a sudden, my oil pressure went down and a loud knocking started.

asked by on September 29, 2016

Oil pressure went low and knocking started

My car has 260000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Oil Pressure Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi, thanks for writing in. The only way to verify if the engine is damaged is to do at least a partial inspection of the internals. The oil pan and/or valve covers should be removed to inspect the camshaft sensors, crankshaft sensor, etc. If anything visible up high in the engine, under the valve covers, are burned or scorched from lack of oil or oil pressure, then the entire engine is most likely damaged.

If you would like help, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make or suggest any repairs as needed.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Brake pedal has very little resistance
From what you've described, I'd advise you to not drive the vehicle and get the brakes bled out. It's possible that you still have a brake fluid leak in this case. I'd suggest having this looked at by a certified...
OBll CODE : P1899
Hi there. As the service manual reads, the resistance between pin 2 on the range switch and pin 6 black PCM connector must be checked for less than 5 ohms of resistance. Any more than 5 ohms of resistance and...
I am missing two bolt on my transmission will it damage it ? and from the transmission to the oil pan there is oil leaking is tha
The bolts that are missing should not cause a problem but they should be replaced as soon as possible just in case. The leak between the engine and transmission can be oil from the engine. It could potentially be a...
cylinder 3 and 4 misfire
Hi there. Check the spark plugs (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/spark-plugs-replacement) to see if they have burn spots on them. Switch them out with cylinders that are firing. If the other cylinders do not fire now, then the spark plugs need replaced. If the...
I think I might have bleach in my fuel tank, is there anyway I might be able to tell?
If you crank the vehicle over a few times and it doesn't start, when you go to the exhaust you may be able to smell fuel if that is the problem. If the fuel pump has failed, you won't be...
Fuel injector problems
Hello. Thanks for writing in. The diagnostic code that is triggering your warning light it's a fairly generic code relating to a bad reading at one of the sensors. This bad reading can mean that there's an electrical or mechanical...
Brake lights not working fuse OK bulbs OK new Switch still not working
Hello, thank you for writing in. If you know that the brake bulbs, relay, and switch are good then you have an issue with the wiring or the ground connection. The body control module also plays a role in how...
Key stuck in the ignition.
To remove the key from the ignition switch, try turning the steering wheel left and right as you turn the ignition switch. Make sure that the vehicle is in park to make the interlock solenoid unlock the ignition switch lock....
My car says the door is ajar but it really isn't
One of the more common causes of a false "door ajar" warning light is stuck contacts in the electrical switch in the door pillar. The switch can be tested. Sometimes the switch can be cleaned or serviced but that can...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2011 Ford Ranger
The The 2011 Ford Ranger offers affordable pricing with excellent styling. It is a compact pickup that is both inexpensive to operate and own. The vehicle is capable of going off-road while still being able to tow 1,600 to 3,100...
2012 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Mazda 3: Which One Should I Buy?
Compact sedans and hatchbacks provide a great ride on a budget, with the evolution from a stodgy, unattractive exterior (and interior!) to a more fully-featured trim set and exterior design. Driving enjoyment is improved throughout the class, which are known...
2012 Ford F-150 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado: Which One Should I Buy?
When you’re ready to really get some work done, there’s nothing like a full size pickup truck. These trucks are ready to haul a big load and really get in there and get busy. SUVs are great for moving people,...