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I have a 96 Honda Civic which I bought new. I had

Sent to Honda Experts October 10, 2007 7:12 a.m.

I have a 96 Honda Civic which I bought new. I had neglected to check the oil in time and when I saw the oil lamp come on I realized that I had run out. I had just had a complete oil change 3000 miles earlier. Within minutes, I immediately replenished the oil with two quarts I happened to have in the trunk and was able to get it into a Honda service center which is less than a mile away. This all happened within 15 or 20 minutes. They did a thorough oil change by taking out the newly applied oil and supplying four new quarts but the oil lamp has not yet gone out. They suspect a leak but there is no indication that the car is leaking oil (no marks in the driveway, etc.) and the car continues to run fine. They told me to come back after driving another 1000 miles (only 65,000 miles on it now). Have I seriously damaged the car? What can I expect? Shall I start looking for another car? And is the oil lamp ever going to go out?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $9

Answer
October 10, 2007 11:49 a.m. (4 hours and 37 minutes later)

ACCEPTED

Hi,

First, you need to check the oil pressure sending unit. It should be located just above the oil filter at the engine block. If the wiring is frayed or exposed it may be shorting out causing the light to come on. Also, have the sending unit checked for proper operation.

If sending unit is ok, then there is a possibility that the oil pump was damaged from running engine with low or no oil. If the pump is damaged it will need to be replaced. If you have a knocking or clacking noise, then you will be looking at an engine rebuild or replacement due to engine bearings being damaged.

IF there is no noise, then you should only be looking at either the oil pressure sending unit or oil pump. If oil pump is bad and you dont have it repaired soon, then you chance damaging the engine due to insuffecient oil reaching the cylinder head.

If this answer has helped please hit the ACCEPT BUTTON or ask for more help. Positive feedback is always appreciated

eric -- Automotive Repair Shop Manager -- 100% Positive Feedback on 251 Honda Accepts
Automotive Repair Shop Manager, Technician

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