Vauxhall Astra - why is the oil warning light on?

The oil warning light has started illuminating on my 2004 Vauxhall Astra. It comes on intermittently when stationary at traffic lights and goes off immediately when I start driving. I have checked the oil and there is plenty in there. I have noticed a small leak near the oil pressure sensor but nothing significant. I have had this issue over three weeks and not needed to top up the oil. Why is the light coming when there is plenty of oil in the engine?

Asked on 27 March 2014 by Haqqani

Answered by Honest John
This indicates lack of oil pressure, not lack of oil, so if there is a leak near the oil pump preventing the oil from reaching full pressure, that is the reason.
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