Oil Pressure Sensors

The Oil Pressure Sensor, or Switch, monitors the oil pressure in the vehicle’s engine and sends this information to the vehicle’s computer or Engine Control Module or ECM, or ECU or PCM. If there is an issue with the oil pressure the oil pressure light on the instrument panel will be illuminated. Often this is just an indication of a bad oil pressure sensor.

Common causes of Oil Pressure Sensor failure:
• Faulty oil pump
• Clogged oil filter
• Clogged oil passages in the engine
• Low engine oil

Symptoms of a failing Oil Pressure Sensor may include:
• Inaccurate oil level readings (low oil light on, but engine oil levels are good)
• Oil pressure light continuously flashes
• Oil pressure gauge is at zero

The following OBD II error codes are the most commonly found with this product type.
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) systems are integrated into the computers of our vehicles to monitor emissions. The first generation of OBD requirements was implemented in California in 1988. Since then, these requirements were adopted by the US EPA for all passenger vehicles manufactured after 1996. In 2005, OBD systems then also became mandatory for heavy-duty vehicles and engines up to 14,000 lbs. GVWR. In 2008 the EPA finalized OBD regulations for 2010 and later heavy-duty engines used in highway vehicles over 14,000 lbs. GVWR and made changes to the OBD requirements for heavy-duty applications up to 14,000 lbs. GVWR to align them with requirements for applications over 14,000 lbs. GVWR.

OBD II is now the standard in diagnosing vehicle emissions in. The codes listed for this product type are common instances that may relate to your vehicle and should be used as a guide only. Walker Products will not be held responsible for any use of this information. It is highly suggested that you consult with a professionally trained mechanic prior to any automotive repair, and that you follow all vehicle manufacturer and EPA guidelines for removal, replacement, diagnostics, OBD II code clearing, ECU and PCM relearn procedures.

o P0520 Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit
o P0521 Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Range/Performance
o P0522 Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Low
o P0523 Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch High
o P0524 Engine Oil Pressure Too Low