What to do if the oil pressure lamp is on
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Some parameters of the functioning of certain automotive systems require constant monitoring so that you can quickly respond to problems that have arisen and correct problems before they lead to serious consequences. Sensors and indicators on the dashboard help in this. One of these indicators indicates a deviation from the norm of oil pressure in the engine lubrication system. This is an extremely important parameter, because even a short-term oil starvation can lead to a destructive effect on the engine.
The oil pressure lamp can light up in different situations - when starting the engine, after warming up, at idle. The indicator may flash or be on constantly - this does not change the essence of the problem. Let's try to figure out why this happens and what to do in such cases.
The oil pressure indicator lights up for a short time when the ignition is turned on
The lubrication system of the power unit has an electronic sensor that responds to pressure fluctuations. At the moment the engine starts, when the oil pump has not yet had time to create sufficient pressure in the lubrication system, the sensor contacts are closed, and through them voltage is supplied to the indicator, the computer usually acts as an intermediary. A brief light on the oil pressure light on the dashboard indicates the health of the sensor, wiring and the indicator itself.
If the oil pump is working and everything is in order in the lubrication system, the pressure in it will quickly return to normal. Oil pressure on the sensor membrane will open the contacts and the indicator will go out.
When the oil pressure light turns on for a couple of seconds and then goes out when starting the engine, there is nothing to worry about, this is normal. During a cold start in frosty weather, the indicator may burn a little longer.
If the indicator does not turn on, you should check the integrity of the wires, the reliability of the contacts and, of course, the health of the sensor itself.
If the light comes on and continues to burn constantly, then the problem may not only be in the sensor or wiring. It is possible that the necessary pressure is not provided in the lubrication system, which means that engine parts do not receive enough oil. And this is a serious cause for concern. Not worth the risk! Stop the engine immediately and find out what's wrong. Remember that if the motor does not get enough lubrication, you may simply not be able to get to the car service on your own - the motor will begin to fall apart earlier. If the reason is not clear, it is better to play it safe and call a tow truck.
Check the oil level
This is the first thing to do when the oil pressure light is on or flashing. It is the lack of lubrication in the system that is a common reason for the indicator to work, especially if it lights up at idle, and goes out when it increases. This is because as the engine warms up and the engine speed increases, the oil circulation improves.
Checking the oil level should be done a few minutes after the engine stops, when excess grease drains into the sump.
If the machine has increased oil consumption, you need to find out why this is happening. There can be many reasons - leaks due to leakage, part of the oil leaving the cooling system due to problems with the cylinder-piston group, and others.
If the CPG is very worn out, then the oil pressure light may not go out at idle even after the engine has warmed up. Indirectly, this will confirm the exhaust of a gray or black color.
Change oil
Dirty, used oil can also be the source of the problem. If the lubricant is not changed in time, this can lead to severe contamination of the oil lines and poor oil circulation. Using low quality lubricant or mixing different types will lead to the same result. To solve the problem, you will have to not only change the oil, but also flush the system.
Using the wrong viscosity lubricant will also cause pressure problems in the system.
How to check the emergency oil pressure switch
The first step is to use your owner's manual to find out where the electronic oil pressure sensor is located in your vehicle. Then remove it with the engine off. To check, you will need a tester (multimeter) and or.
Connect a multimeter to the sensor contacts, included in the resistance test or “continuity” mode. The device should show zero resistance. Using the pump, apply pressure corresponding to the minimum allowable in the lubrication system of your car. The membrane should bend, and the pusher should open the contacts. The multimeter will show infinite resistance (open circuit). If so, then the sensor is working and can be returned to its place. Otherwise, it will have to be replaced.
If you don't have a multimeter at hand, you can use 12V.
A second sensor can also be installed in the car, designed to control the upper pressure level. The test procedure is similar, only its contacts are normally open, and should close when the maximum allowable pressure value is exceeded.
While the sensor is dismantled, it is worth taking the opportunity to measure the pressure in the system by screwing in a pressure gauge instead of the sensor. Measurements should be made at different engine speeds, including idle. Make sure the results are within the limits specified in your vehicle's technical documentation.
If the pressure in the lubrication system is below the maximum allowable, you need to figure out what's wrong and fix the problem. Moreover, this should be done without delay, then the solution of the problem will most likely not be too difficult and not financially burdensome. Otherwise, you risk getting on.
The main suspects to be tested are:
- Oil filter
- Oil receiver mesh.
- Oil pump and its pressure reducing valve.
The oil filter
After turning off the engine and stopping the oil pump, some grease remains in the filter. This allows the pump to provide lubrication of engine parts almost immediately after a new engine start. If the filter is defective or defective, grease can be discharged into the oil sump through a loosely closed anti-drain valve. Then it will take some time for the pressure in the system to reach a normal value. And the indicator light will burn a little longer than usual - 10 ... 15 seconds.
If the filter has not been changed for a long time and is heavily clogged, this, of course, will also affect the pressure in the system.
It is also possible that the wrong one was installed by mistake, for example, with less bandwidth than required.
Replacing the filter is a very obvious solution to this problem.
Oil receiver mesh
Oil not only lubricates the power unit, but also collects and carries away the wear products of rubbing parts. A significant part of this dirt settles on the oil receiver mesh, which serves to coarsely clean the lubricant. A clogged mesh does not allow oil to pass to the pump inlet. The pressure drops and the light on the dashboard flashes or stays on.
This happens not only because of the old, dirty oil, but also as a result of using various flushes when changing the lubricant. Washes remove dirt everywhere and bring it to the oil receiver. Poor-quality additives, as well as the use of sealant when installing gaskets, also lead to a similar effect. Do not be too lazy to get the grid and rinse it.
Oil pump
It is a key element of the lubrication system. It is he who provides the desired level of pressure and maintains a constant circulation of oil, taking it from the oil sump and pumping it through the filter into the system.
Although the oil pump is a fairly reliable device, it also has its own service life. If the pump has become poorly performing its functions, a new one should be installed. Although in many cases it can be repaired on its own, if there is a desire, time, conditions and some skills.
During repairs, in particular, attention should be paid to the pressure reducing valve. It serves to dump part of the lubricant back into the crankcase under excess pressure. If the valve is stuck in the open position, the oil will constantly be dumped, causing the pressure in the system to drop and the indicator on the dashboard to go off.
If checking the pressure using a pressure gauge screwed in instead of the sensor shows that it does not increase with increasing speed, the reason is most likely the pump pressure relief valve stuck open.
Blinking indicator on uneven road
This may be due to the fact that during shaking or a strong roll, air enters the pump instead of lubrication. This leads to pressure fluctuations in the system and periodic triggering of the sensor. And on the dashboard, the oil pressure light will flash.
This is not a malfunction and is acceptable for a short time. Perhaps the oil level is slightly low. But if this is a typical situation for your car, then you are better off avoiding driving over rough terrain.
If your car has problems with oil pressure and you need to replace some parts, you can purchase them in the online store. Here you will find all kinds of spare parts for Chinese and European cars at an affordable price.
