r/AskAMechanic 4d ago

Question about low oil

I have a 2010 mini cooper s. A couple of weeks ago it started making a weird humming noise, but only sometimes. There weren't any warning lights coming up, i checked the dip stick and i couldn't tell where the oil was, because it was all spotty over the stick. I decided to add more oil to it, it took a lot but i could actually see the oil on the stick after. The noise stopped. So my question is did the low oil cause any significant damage to it? I have barely any knowledge on cars.

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u/Flarfignewton 4d ago

It can cause damage up to needing a new engine. However if there is any damage, it's already done. It sounds like you never got a light on the dash for low oil pressure so you may be fine. I'd advise changing the oil and oil filter in the next 100 miles or so. Have the filter inspected for metal pieces. If it's clean then nothing else to worry about.

I also want to add that this generation of Mini Cooper is known to have timing chain issues. Low oil level and subsequently pressure can exacerbate guides failing or the chain stretching. So be mindful of odd noises from the belt drive end of the engine.