There’s nothing quite like a serene drive in your Kia Soul, but unexpected dashboard alerts can quickly disrupt that peace. If the oil light on your Kia Soul starts flickering, it’s certainly not a signal to be ignored. Your car is trying to tell you something important, and it’s time to listen up. So, in this guide, I’ll show you how to deal with that issue; keep reading.
What the oil light indicates
Before getting into the specifics of the flickering oil light, it’s essential to understand what the oil light is for. This small indicator on your dashboard usually illuminates in red or yellow and is shaped like an old-fashioned oil can. It’s connected to your vehicle’s engine oil pressure system. So when it lights up, it’s indicating that there may be an issue with your car’s oil pressure.
Reasons behind a flickering oil light
An oil light that flicks can indicate various things ranging from minor glitches to severe issues that need immediate attention. Here are some potential reasons why your Kia Soul’s oil light might be flashing:
Insufficient oil levels
The most common and perhaps obvious reason for an oil light to flicker is low oil level. If your car doesn’t have enough oil, the engine can’t stay properly lubricated, leading to increased friction, overheating, and potentially engine damage. Checking the oil level is something you can do at home. Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface, and after waiting for the engine to cool, use the dipstick to check oil levels. If the oil is below the minimum mark, top it up as soon as possible.
Oil pressure issues
Oil pressure is crucial for keeping the engine components well-lubricated under all operating conditions. In fact, a flickering light might indicate irregularities in oil pressure, either too high or too low. Also, low oil pressure can occur due to a malfunctioning oil pump, clogged oil filter, or leaks in the system, while high pressure might be caused by blockages or deposits in the oil pathways.
Faulty oil pressure sensor or gauge
Sometimes the issue isn’t with the oil or pressure in the system but the sensor that detects the pressure. So, a faulty sensor or a malfunctioning gauge can give false readings, leading to a flickering light. This requires a professional diagnosis to fix or replace the erroneous part.
Engine issues
In a worst-case scenario, the flickering oil light is a symptom of engine problems, which might include worn engine bearings or other vital components suffering from the lack of proper lubrication. An engine emitting knocking sounds along with the flickering light is a red flag that immediate professional attention is needed.
What should you do?
When faced with a flickering oil light, there are several steps you should take to address the issue.
- Check the oil level: As mentioned, this is your first, most accessible troubleshooting step. If it’s low, top it up with the right type of oil specified in your owner’s manual. If it’s at the proper level, you might have another issue on your hands.
- Monitor the light: Pay attention to when the light flickers. Is it during acceleration, deceleration, or idle? These conditions can provide clues to your mechanic when diagnosing the problem.
- Listen to your car: Any unusual noises or behavior can be indicative of the problem’s nature. For instance, if you hear clunking or knocking, the engine could be suffering from severe issues due to low oil pressure.
- Check for leaks: Before driving any further, inspect the ground where your car was parked to see if there are signs of an oil leak, which could be causing the light to flicker.
- Consult the owner’s manual: The manual may have specific instructions or warnings about what to do when the oil light flickers.
- Get professional help: Anytime the oil light flickers, it’s best to seek professional help. Continuing to drive without resolving the issue could lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Preventing future flickers
Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding issues related to low oil or pressure. For that reason, regularly scheduled oil changes, using manufacturer-recommended oil, and replacing the oil filter as advised can keep such problems at bay. Also, keeping an eye on engine performance and getting routine checks can help identify potential concerns before they turn into severe problems.
Conclusion
An oil light that flickers in your Kia Soul is not something to take lightly. It can signify a minor issue like low oil, or it could herald a major engine problem. The important thing is not to panic but to take logical steps to diagnose and remedy the situation. Always remember that it’s better to address the problem sooner rather than later; ignoring it could leave you with a stalled car and a hefty repair bill.
Keep your Soul happy and healthy by paying attention to what it’s trying to tell you. A flickering oil light is one line of communication you don’t want to ignore. With proper care and regular maintenance, your Kia Soul will provide reliable service for many miles to come. If in doubt, never hesitate to reach out to a trusted mechanic who can provide expert advice and service to keep your vehicle in top condition.
