Just tried to start my 2001 XJ8 this morning and the engine cut out immediately. Low oil pressure light came on - checked underneath the vehicle and low and behold there were a few small patches of oil. The oil is dripping from the sump but where its originating from I can't tell. I checked the dipstick however and the levels are fine, nearly at max after a new change about 3 weeks ago. Can anyone help me in suggesting what the causes might be or where to look? I am distraught!

 

The easiest thing to do is replace the oil pressure sending unit. The right thing to do would be to remove the sending unit and install an oil pressure gauge. Does the engine making a knocking noise or any other weird noises when the light is on?

 

Any history on the car?
Drop the oil pan and check pick-up for timing tensioner and guide bits.

 

After getting a mechanic round to have a look it turned out the dripping oil was a false flag, it was excess coming off from an apparently shoddy oil change. The battery was on its last legs and causing issues with the electrics, a replacement battery was installed and its right as rain. Thank you for the help.