i hav a dohc zc and when i start it in the cold i noticed the oil light stays on for a few seconds. it does not do this when warm tho, i suspect a bad oil pump? the engine doesnt appear to be knocking, does n e one hav any suggestions or ideas?? o ye almost forgot doesnt want to idle on it own when could either if that has any influence, im thinking the choke is not running propely so i have to hold down the gas a bit for a min before it ants to idle, this part doesnt worry me just the oil lite

 

What year Civic? Is the oil level low? Have you checked the oil pump pressure? See pictures for 92-95 Civics.

 

its an 88 crx with dohc zc swap, oil level is good

 

maybe the oil's too thick? I'd try to switch to a lighter oil first, just because it's so easy to do.

 

ye i think its too cold out and my oil hasnt been changed in a while, it didnt do it today and it was warmer outside today