1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Owner's Manual - Page 116

If you make a hard stop, the light may come on for a moment. This is normal. Low Oil Level Light Your engine is equipped with an oil level monitoring system. When the ignition key is turned on, the LOW OIL light will briefly flash. If the light does not flash, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there's a problem. Don't keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If so you do, your engine can become hot thatit catches fire.You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. LOW OIL I NOTICE: Damage to your engine from neglected oil problems can be costly and is not covered by your warranty. If the light stays on, stop the vehicle on a levelsurface and turn the engine off. Check the oil level using the engine oil dipstick. (See "Engine Oil'' in the Index.) If the light does not flash, have the low oil level sensor system repaired so it will be ready to warn you if there's a problem. The oil level monitoring system only checks the oil level during the brief period between keyon and engine crank. It doesnot monitor the engine oil level when the engine is running. Additionally, an oil level check is only performed if the engine has been turnedoff for a considerable period of time, allowing the oil normally in circulation to drain back into the oil pan.