I have a couple of slow oil leaks in the rear main seal and oil pan gasket. Fixing these requires me to spend more than the car is worth.

I am currently driving it and the oil light keeps coming on even after I get oil changes and add oil.

My question is...Is it safe to drive even when this light is coming on although I have plenty of oil in it? I know this is a pretty stupid question but I have a very limited knowledge and even the short amount I've driven with the light on, everything seems to be fine.

 

check oil sensor if there is one..

 

The light doesn't come on until after I drive about 200 miles after an oil change. I don't think it is a problem with the sensor.

96 2.5TL

I think I've read of others having these sorts of leaks. Mechanic told me that to fix these leaks several parts of the engine area had to be taken out and moved around to get them fixed. I'm not doing all that.

Just looking for an expert opinion on how far I can drive knowing I have enough oil. Could sludge build up and all that be causing the light to activate? Or would it be the leaks and the pressure? Dang car is on my last nerve.

 

If you get any valve clattering or rod knocking when oil light is on, the oil pressure may be low. A blocked inlet screen on the oil pump could cause this.

Most likely the oil pressure switch is defective. I had this happen recently on my 2.5TL, after a timing belt repair problem (search my posts). The switch was replaced w/o intake manifold removal. Oil filter must be removed, and it is a difficult access, but it can be done.

good luck

 

The oil pressure switch is the same as the 3.2s, and they list for only $8 at the dealer. If that's all it is, then it's a really cheap fix.

~Cheers~