Ford 1996 Taurus Manual page 76

This light comes on every time you turn your
ignition key to the ON or START position. The
light should go off when the engine starts and
the alternator begins to charge.
If the light stays on or comes on when the
engine is running, have the electrical system
checked as soon as possible.
Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light indicates the engine's oil pressure, not
the oil level. However, if the engine's oil level is
low, it could affect the oil pressure. The light
should come on every time the ignition key is
turned to the ON or START position, and
should turn off after the engine is running.
Engine oil pressure warning light
If the light stays on or turns on when the engine
is running, the engine has lost oil pressure and
continued operation will cause severe engine
damage.
If you lose engine oil pressure:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible.
2. Shut off the engine immediately. If you do
not stop the engine as soon as safely
possible, severe engine damage could result.
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