When investigating low oil pressure, which should be done first?

When addressing a concern of low oil pressure, the initial step should be to check the crankcase oil level. Oil pressure issues often stem from inadequate oil levels, which can lead to insufficient lubrication of engine components. If the oil level is low, it can cause the oil pump to draw in air instead of oil, resulting in a drop in pressure and potentially leading to engine damage.

Ensuring the oil level is within the recommended range is a critical first step. If the oil level is normal, then further investigation can proceed with other methods such as verifying the oil gauge reading or checking for contamination. This approach prioritizes addressing the most straightforward and potentially common cause of low oil pressure, allowing for a more efficient and logical diagnostic process.