An oil pressure sensor (switch) is an essential component of modern automobile engines. It keeps track of the lubricating system’s oil pressure, which is supplied to all rotating and moving elements inside the engine under pressure via the engine lubrication system.
After being drawn from the oil pan, oil is pumped through the oil filter and into the lubricating system channels by an oil pump. Well, in this reading, we’ll explore what an oil pressure sensor is, its functions, location, and how it works.
We’ll also explore the symptoms, problems, diagnosis, and replacement cost of a bad oil pressure sensor.
Let’s begin!
What is an Oil Pressure Sensor?
An oil pressure sensor is a device used to measure the oil pressure on an engine. An oil pressure switch and an oil pressure sender are two independent and unique types of sensors that are covered under the term “oil pressure sensor.”
The main bearings, other bearings, camshafts, and other rotating and moving elements of the engine receive pressure-applied oil through the channels. Any engine won’t run for more than a few minutes without oil pressure.
The main job of the oil sensor is to keep track of the engine’s oil pressure and provide that data to the meter or infotainment system.
If the vehicles have an electronic system, the oil pressure sensor sends this data to the main computer, which computes and analyses all the received data before displaying it on the dashboard or infotainment system of the car.
When there is a change in the engine’s oil pressure, such as when the engine oil level falls drastically low or when a sensor is damaged and no longer effective, the warning light on the panel illuminates and also displays the change in the oil pressure measurement.
Related: What Is An Engine Lubrication System? Its Functions And Parts
Where is it Located?
The cylinder block, usually near the housing for the oil filter, is where an oil pressure sensor (switch) is mounted.
Oil pressure sensors come in two different varieties: An oil pressure sensor is often a straightforward switch that opens the electrical circuit when the oil pressure reaches the minimum level necessary. The real oil pressure is measured by an oil pressure sensor in other vehicles.
Diagram
How does an Oil Pressure Sensor Work?
The oil pressure alarm is activated when it deviates from a predetermined range. The diaphragm and the spring-loaded switch are two essential parts of the oil pressure sensor. An engine block holds the pressure switch, which is coupled to the oil gallery.
When the oil pressure on the diaphragm starts to increase, the switch’s spring pressure overrides the force needed to separate the electrical contacts, which illuminates the warning light.
To enable the switch contacts to display a warning signal to the driver if oil pressure drops below a predetermined level, the diaphragm releases pressure from the springs. A dashboard warning light for low oil pressure is present in vehicles.
Any driver will recognise that when this light blinks quickly, it denotes a little decrease in oil pressure.
The driver gets informed of a complete loss of oil pressure even if the light is still on. An electrical current flows from a fuse to the oil pressure switch when the engine is started, guaranteeing that the indication light is turned off.
The diaphragm separates the connections when the oil pressure exceeds 4.3 PSI, activating the oil pressure light.
Symptoms of A Bad Oil Pressure Sensor
A bad oil pressure sensor will show different symptoms, such as oil leakage from the oil pressure sensor, the oil pressure gauge will display an incorrect reading, the engine will make an unusual noise, the check engine light will turn on, and the oil pressure light will blink repeatedly.
1. Oil Leakage From the Oil Pressure Sensor
Your oil pressure sensor is made to fit within your car’s oil system, so it can measure the oil pressure. But occasionally, this can cause your oil pressure to leak, either via the sensor’s centre or from the threads.
This is a well-known common issue with certain Vauxhall models. Through the centre of its body, the oil pressure sensor seeps oil, filling the block connector and drenching the engine compartment.
2. The oil pressure gauge displays an incorrect reading.
If there is a problem with the sensor or the connection between the sensor and gauge, the old vehicle’s gauge that measures oil pressure will read zero even when the oil level is normal.
However, if you are operating a modern automobile, the sensor that determines oil pressure will be electronic and convey data via electronic impulses.
The entertainment system will display odd values, such as a full or empty oil level. If your car experiences this problem, inspect the sensor and replace it if necessary.
3. Unusual Engine Noise.
The importance of maintaining the proper oil pressure increases if your engine has an oil-fed timing chain. This is so that your chain may continue to move freely and remain lubricated, which it does by drawing oil from your oil pump.
Another factor supporting the importance of maintaining oil pressure is the fact that the tensioners that keep the chain’s tension in place are frequently oil-supplied.
Your chain tensioners may loosen up as a result of a decrease in engine oil pressure, leaving you with a loose chain that jostles and jostles against the various pulleys and housings.
4. Lights for the oil pressure turn on.
Even though the oil level is normal when manually examined and your car is running smoothly, the infotainment system displays a false reading when the oil pressure sensor is damaged for any reason or isn’t functioning properly.
When the oil level is normal but the oil pump in your car is malfunctioning and making it difficult to shift into gear, you may occasionally hear grinding noises coming from the engine even though the sensor is functioning normally.
As a result, if the vehicle’s dashboard panel displays data that is far outside of the norm, a warning light will illuminate. Replace your oil pressure sensor if you’ve ever found yourself in this situation in order to acquire an accurate readout of the engine’s oil pressure.
5. The oil pressure lights will blink repeatedly.
Oil pressure sensors may generate misleading readings when they’re malfunctioning, which typically indicate low engine oil levels. This could frighten the driver since, if the warning is accurate, a low oil level can seriously and irreparably harm your car’s engine.
If the oil level is low, you should personally examine it to ascertain the real level. After manually testing, if you discover that the oil level is normal, this means that the oil pressure sensor is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced.
What are the problems associated with the oil pressure sensor?
One of the frequent issues is when the oil pressure sensor (switch) begins to leak oil. The tread or the sensor itself could both leak oil. Your mechanic might advise resealing the tread if oil spills from it.
The sensor itself must be changed if it is leaking. When the oil pressure sensor becomes clogged or malfunctions internally and cannot accurately measure the oil pressure, this is another frequent issue.
Even when there is sufficient pressure, this may cause the low oil pressure warning light to illuminate.
The Check Engine light may illuminate in some vehicles with the code PP0520 (Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Circuit) when an oil pressure sensor fails. For instance, it frequently occurs in numerous Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep vehicles.
The first thing to do when the code P0520 is present is to search for service bulletins. As an illustration, consider Chrysler Service Bulletin 18-034-14 REV.
If the fault is confirmed, it suggests substituting a malfunctioning oil pressure sensor with an updated component. The sensor electric circuit (wiring, connectors) needs to be checked as well if there are no advisories.
How can you Test an Oil Pressure Sensor?
Depending on the type of sensor, the testing process varies. Since the low oil pressure warning light frequently illuminates as a result of the low oil level, the first action is typically to check the engine oil level and condition.
A standard testing process is for a technician to examine the sensor’s wiring and measure the engine lubrication system’s real oil pressure.
A unique adaptor is used to connect an oil pressure gauge in place of the oil pressure sensor, which is how mechanics monitor the oil pressure. When the engine is running, if the oil pressure is very low, an internal engine issue exists.
If the pressure is within specifications and the wiring for the sensor seems good, the sensor is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Your mechanic can suggest replacing the oil pressure sensor first to see if it resolves the issue because the oil pressure test takes a lot of time and the sensor is not very expensive.
We are aware of numerous instances where the oil pressure light problem was resolved by installing a new oil pressure sensor.
If the sensor and its wiring are in good condition, the oil level is correct, and the oil light continues to illuminate while the engine is running.
There may be a problem with the internal combustion engine or with the lubrication system, such as a faulty oil filter or blocked oil pickup screen. Additional diagnostics will be needed in this situation.
Related: What Is Oil Pan? Its Function and Types
Replacement Cost of an Oil Pressure Sensor
Several variables can affect the price of replacing a car’s defective oil pressure sensor. However, the typical replacement cost (including labour) should fall between $100 and $220.
While labour charges can cost anywhere from $70 to $120, the oil pressure sensor itself can cost between $30 and $100.
If you choose aftermarket or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) vehicle parts, the cost of the parts may differ. The cost of labour can also change based on the location and experience of the mechanic. In general, a dealership will cost more than an independent mechanic.
FAQs
What happens when an oil pressure sensor goes bad?
A malfunctioning oil pressure sensor may erroneously indicate low oil pressure, turning on the oil light. The oil pressure light may also flash on and off if the oil pressure-sending device is faulty.
What does the oil pressure sensor do?
Your oil pressure sensor’s main job is to keep track of your engine’s oil pressure and send that data to the cluster gauge on the instrument panel. The majority of contemporary automobiles have an electronic control module to which the oil pressure is directly connected.
Can I drive with a bad oil pressure sensor?
It is not a good idea to drive with a bad oil pressure sensor, even though your automobile will still function without one. The oil pressure sensor, commonly referred to as an oil pressure switch, determines whether your car has the right amount of oil in it. You won’t be able to tell if your oil levels are appropriate without a functional sensor.
Can a car not start if the oil pressure sensor is not working?
Since correct lubrication depends on the effective flow of engine oil, a damaged or unable sensor may cause the ECU to enter a fail-safe mode. The computer might stop the engine from starting if it signals that the pressure is low.
What controls the oil pressure sensor?
The engine’s oil circuit contains the oil pressure switch. It controls an oil pressure indicator and activates or deactivates a warning light, all while monitoring the oil pressure.
Normally, the oil pressure switch is off. The warning light for low oil pressure turns on when the ignition is turned on.
Why is my oil light on but my oil is full?
A worn-out oil pressure sensor is the likely offender if the oil level and condition are OK, the engine is operating normally, but the oil light is still on.
You can still drive safely in this situation, but you should get the automobile inspected and the sensor changed as soon as possible by a skilled mechanic.
What causes low oil pressure?
One of the most frequent causes of low engine oil pressure is the oil level decreasing below the minimum dipstick line. Because of wear and use, an unattended oil change, or an oil leak, your car’s engine oil level may be low. The oil pump won’t be able to provide enough pressure if there isn’t enough oil.
What are the symptoms of low oil pressure?
- Oil Warning Light. Your sensor might turn on the oil warning light on the dashboard if the oil pressure falls below the necessary level.
- Engine performance is declining.
- Burning-oil smell.
- Engine rumbling.
- Overheating of the engine.
- Engine oil is low.
- Inappropriate Oil viscosity.
- Poor oil pump.
That is all for this article, in which we’ve discussed the oil pressure sensor, addressing the answers to the following questions:
- What is the oil pressure sensor?
- How does it work?
- Where is it located?
- What are the problems associated with the oil pressure sensor?
- How do you tell the sensor is bad?
- How can you test the oil pressure sensor?
- What is the cost of replacing an oil pressure sensor?
