HRV Oil Pressure Light

That sounds eerily familiar! I drive an HRV as well, though not from the turn of the century. Those warning lights are rarely a good sign. If you've been exceeding the maintenance intervals, it's highly likely you've got some serious oil contamination. What does the oil look like on the dipstick? Is it dark, sludgy, or does it have a burnt smell? Think of your engine's oil like the lifeblood of the car; if it's dirty, it can't do its job, and things will start to go wrong very quickly.

The oil does look pretty bad, now that you mention it. It's definitely darker than usual, and a bit thicker, like molasses. Is there anything I could try myself, maybe some engine flush or a specific type of oil, before taking it to a shop? I am not a fan of expensive surprises.

That "molasses" consistency is not good; that's oil sludge, and it indicates a fairly serious problem. While an engine flush might seem like a quick fix, it could dislodge large chunks of sludge and clog oil passages, creating even bigger problems. Given the symptoms and the condition of the oil, I strongly recommend taking it to a trusted mechanic. They can properly diagnose the extent of the damage and advise on the best course of action to avert engine issues.

Thanks so much for the advice! I took it to a local workshop; you were right about the sludge. The mechanic said it was due to the extended maintenance intervals. In the end, a thorough oil change, filter replacement, and engine cleaning set me back about 165€. A costly lesson, but hopefully, my HRV will be running smoothly for years to come!