For optimal engine lubrication, lubricants circulate through an oil pump, maintaining a specific pressure necessary for proper circulation. This pressure is measured by a component known as the oil pressure sensor or switch. The dashboard’s low oil pressure warning light serves to alert the driver when the oil pressure drops. However, a malfunctioning oil pressure sensor can falsely illuminate the warning light or fail to indicate low pressure accurately.
Symptoms of Faulty Oil Pressure Sensor :
Here are the symptoms of a bad oil pressure sensor in a car:
1. Check Engine Light is ON:
A malfunctioning oil pressure sensor can trigger the check engine light, accompanied by related OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Common codes associated with faulty pressure sensors include P0520, P0521, P0522, P0523, and P0524.
2. Stuck Needle at Low:
In certain vehicles equipped with an oil pressure gauge, a continuous reading of very low, even when the engine is running smoothly, could indicate a faulty sensor. However, factors like a clogged oil filter or faulty oil pump could also cause this issue.
Inspect for signs of bad oil pump to ensure the root cause of the issue.
3. Stuck Needle at High:
If the oil pressure gauge needle is consistently stuck at a high level despite no engine issues, it might indicate a faulty oil pressure sensor or gauge. However, factors like a clogged oil filter or faulty oil pump could also cause this issue.
4. Oil Leaks around Sensor:
Leaks around the area where the oil pressure sensor threads into the engine block can trigger the check engine light due to saturation with engine oil. This interference can lead to sensor malfunctions.
5. Intermittent Low Oil Pressure Warning Light::
If the low oil pressure warning light flickers on and off intermittently, it might suggest a faulty oil pressure sensor.
6. Low Oil Pressure Warning Light But Engine Running Fine:
If the low-pressure warning light is illuminated while the engine runs smoothly, check the engine oil level using the dipstick. If the oil level is normal, the issue might be with the oil pressure sensor.
7. Engine Overheating But No Low Oil Pressure Warning Light:
If the engine is overheating without any oil pressure warning light, it could indicate low oil pressure that isn’t triggering the warning due to a faulty oil pressure sensor.
How To Fix Bad Oil Pressure Sensor?
To rectify a suspected faulty oil pressure sensor, you can confirm its condition by conducting a manual oil pressure check. If it’s indeed faulty, you can resolve the issue by replacing the oil pressure sensor.
