There’s a lot that goes into making an internal combustion engine run the way it should. While engine oil is one of the fundamental parts of this complex equation, it’s of little use without being pressurized. It’s oil pressure that ensures that the vital lubricant is actually reaching key components of the engine. Without pressure, engine oil is just dead weight in what is most likely a dead engine.
The best way to ensure that you always have optimum oil pressure is by keeping an eye on the oil pressure warning light or oil pressure gauge. And it’s the job of the oil pressure sending unit to ensure it functions as it should.
Article updated on 06.26.2024
What Does the Oil Pressure Sending Unit Do?
The oil pressure sending unit, also known as the oil pressure sensor, is a crucial component of your vehicle’s engine. Its primary function is to monitor the oil pressure within the engine and relay this information to the vehicle’s computer or dashboard gauge.
This ensures that the driver is always aware of the oil pressure status, helping to prevent engine damage due to low oil pressure. By keeping track of the oil pressure, the sending unit helps maintain optimal engine performance and longevity.
So, What Exactly Is an Oil Pressure Sending Unit?
The oil pressure sending unit is typically located near the oil filter or on the engine block. It consists of a pressure-sensitive diaphragm or sensor that reacts to changes in oil pressure. When the engine is running, oil is pumped through the engine, creating pressure.
The sending unit measures this pressure and sends a corresponding signal to the oil pressure gauge on the dashboard or the engine control unit (ECU). This information allows the driver to monitor the engine’s oil pressure in real-time, which is critical for maintaining engine health.
Why Your Engine Needs It to Stay Healthy
Your engine relies on proper lubrication to function correctly, and oil pressure plays a significant role in this process. The oil pressure sending unit ensures that the oil pressure is within the recommended range, preventing potential engine damage caused by insufficient lubrication.
Low oil pressure can lead to increased friction, overheating, and, ultimately, engine failure. The sending unit provides accurate oil pressure readings, helping you take timely action, such as correcting the engine oil level or diagnosing the root cause.
Different Types of Oil Pressure Sending Units
When it comes to oil pressure sending units, there are three main types. The first type, which has been around the longest, is part of the output side of the oil pump and is fed by a connecting tube. This tube links to the gauge on the dashboard, providing a direct reading of the oil pressure.
The second type of oil pressure sending unit screws into a dedicated oil feed location. It uses an electromechanical switch that sends information to the warning lights via a wire. This type will light up the warning light if the oil pressure drops below the set limit. Since oil pressure depends on the engine’s revolutions per minute (RPM), this light might stay on at idling speeds and switch off as the oil pressure rises with increased RPM.
The third type is a transducer that uses electrical voltage output proportional to the actual oil pressure. These oil pressure sensors are further divided into three types based on wiring — 1 pin, 2 pins, or 3 pins. The main difference among these types lies in their wiring configurations, which affect how they relay information.
No matter what type of oil pressure sending unit you have, they all serve the essential purpose of informing you about oil pressure-related complications and helping you take timely action to protect your engine.
Is the Oil Pressure Sending Unit the Same as the Oil Pressure Switch?
An oil pressure sending unit is also known as an oil pressure switch or even an oil pressure sensor. The oil pressure sending unit is a less common name for components these days. No matter what the part is referred to, all three serve the safety purpose of monitoring your oil pressure.
Oil pressure sending units are more often than not paired to a gauge on your dashboard that gives a real-time reading of the oil pressure. In most cases, this is an additional feature to the warning light.
An oil pressure switch and oil pressure sensor also control the warning light, and sometimes, they may even be able to give an oil pressure readout. It all depends on what your car’s manufacturer has decided to call the part.
What Happens When Oil Pressure Switch Goes Bad?
When the oil pressure switch or oil pressure sending unit malfunctions, it’s like you’re running blind — you won’t know if the oil pressure warning light indicates a real issue with oil pressure or just a sensor malfunction. If an oil pressure warning light is ignored, you risk severely damaging your engine if something goes wrong. Therefore, it’s crucial to fix a failing oil pressure sending unit as soon as possible.
Like most car components, an oil pressure sending unit will degrade over time. However, unlike other parts, there’s no specific interval for when it might wear out. While it could suddenly fail, a bad oil pressure sending unit won’t leave you stranded on the side of the road. Its symptoms often mimic those of more serious issues, which means it needs immediate attention.
To confirm whether it’s a fault with the oil pressure switch or something else, you can screw in an external oil pressure gauge in its place and get an accurate reading of the oil pressure. This diagnostic step helps determine if the sensor is the problem or if there’s an actual issue with the oil pressure.
How to Spot a Failing Oil Pressure Sending Unit
The oil pressure sending unit is a critical component that helps you monitor your engine’s oil pressure. When it starts to fail, recognizing the symptoms early can prevent serious engine damage. Knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and hassle. Here are some key signs that your oil pressure sending unit might be acting up.
Signs Your Oil Pressure Sending Unit Might Be Acting Up
Modern cars will usually throw a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), indicating that the oil pressure readings are inaccurate. It implies that there may be something wrong with the oil pressure sending unit. With that said, there are also a couple of other symptoms you should consider as well.
Steady or Blinking Warning Light
One of the clearest indicators of a bad oil pressure sending unit is a steady or blinking oil pressure warning light. If the light comes on, the first thing to check is if the engine oil level is not lower than normal.
If the engine’s oil levels are normal, and it’s running normally with no strange noises, it could be a bad oil pressure sending unit. However, if the engine is making noises that you haven’t heard before, waste no time and switch the ignition off, as it could be a more serious issue.
Inaccurate Oil Pressure Reading
As mentioned before, there’s also the likelihood of your car having a gauge that shows real-time oil pressure data, especially if it’s an older model. In vehicles with a gauge like this, it’s easier to tell if it’s an issue with the oil pressure sending unit or a more serious problem that needs immediate fixing.
If the oil pressure gauge shows an unusually low or high figure, and the car continues to sound and drive without any inconsistencies, you can be pretty sure that it’s the oil pressure sending unit. The same symptom can also be found in modern cars that run electronic gauges. No matter what type of gauges your vehicle has, you should get the issue sorted as soon as possible.
What to Keep an Eye On
Keep an eye on any oil leaks on or around the oil pressure sending unit, as leaks can indicate a problem with the unit itself. Additionally, pay attention to your engine’s overall performance. If it is running rough or experiencing decreased performance, it could be related to oil pressure issues.
Regularly checking your oil levels and inspecting for any abnormalities can help you spot potential problems early, ensuring your engine stays healthy and runs smoothly.
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Why Do These Units Fail?
Oil pressure sending units are essential for monitoring your engine’s oil pressure, but like all mechanical components, they can fail over time. Understanding the common reasons behind these failures can help you take preventive measures and maintain your vehicle’s health. Here, we’ll explore the typical causes of oil pressure sending unit problems and how these issues usually start.
Common Reasons Behind Oil Pressure Sending Unit Problems
Oil pressure sending units can fail due to several common factors:
Wear and Tear — Over time, constant exposure to high temperatures and pressure can degrade the internal components of the sending unit. This is especially notable in older models that use an internal mechanism to detect oil pressure, which can wear out more quickly than newer electronic systems.
Oil Contamination — Dirty or contaminated oil can clog the unit, causing it to malfunction.
Electrical Issues — Faulty wiring or poor electrical connections can lead to inaccurate readings or complete sensor failure.
How These Issues Usually Start
These problems often start gradually and can go unnoticed until they cause significant issues. Wear and tear naturally occur with prolonged use, especially in high-mileage vehicles. Contaminants in the oil, such as dirt and debris, can build up over time and clog the sensor.
Electrical issues may arise from corroded connectors or damaged wiring, disrupting the flow of accurate information. Regular inspections and timely maintenance can help identify and address these issues before they lead to major engine problems.
Figuring Out If Your Oil Pressure Sending Unit Is the Problem
Diagnosing issues with your oil pressure sending unit can be challenging, but it’s crucial for maintaining your engine’s health. Identifying the problem early can prevent more severe engine damage and costly repairs. Here, we’ll provide tools and tips to help you accurately diagnose issues with your sending unit, along with a step-by-step guide to ensure you get it right.
Tools and Tips to Help You Get It Right
Before you begin diagnosing your oil pressure sending unit, gather the necessary tools and follow these tips to ensure accurate results:
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- Oil pressure gauge
- Multimeter
- Service manual
- Ratchet and socket set
- Spanner set
- Pliers set
- Screwdriver set
- Oil pressure sensor socket
- Torque wrench
How to Diagnose Issues With Your Oil Pressure Sending Unit
Follow these steps to diagnose problems with your oil pressure sending unit:
Step 1 — Start by checking your engine oil level. Low oil can cause pressure issues and trigger the warning light.
Step 2 — Look for any signs of oil leaks on or around the oil pressure sending unit and other engine components.
Step 3 — Remove the oil pressure sending unit and install an external oil pressure gauge. Start the engine and compare the readings to your vehicle’s specifications. If the pressure is within the normal range, the sending unit may be faulty.
Step 4 — Use a multimeter to test the electrical connections of the sending unit. Ensure there is no corrosion or damage to the wires and connectors.
Step 5 — If the oil pressure gauge shows normal readings and the electrical connections are intact, replace the oil pressure sending unit with a new one.
Step 6 — After installing the new sending unit, re-test the oil pressure and ensure the warning light functions correctly.
By following these steps, you can accurately diagnose and address issues with your oil pressure sending unit, keeping your engine running smoothly and preventing further damage.
Keeping Your Oil Pressure Sending Unit in Top Shape
Maintaining your oil pressure sending unit is essential for ensuring accurate oil pressure readings and preventing engine damage. Regular upkeep can extend the life of the oil pressure sending unit and help you avoid costly repairs. Here are some tips for maintaining your oil pressure sending unit and best practices to ensure it lasts longer.
Tips for Maintaining Your Sending Unit
Proper maintenance of your oil pressure sending unit involves several key practices:
Regular Oil Changes — Changing your engine oil and filter at the recommended intervals helps prevent contaminants from entering the oil pressure sending unit.
Use High-Quality Oil — Using high-quality engine oil can reduce the buildup of sludge and debris that can clog the sending unit.
Inspect for Leaks — Regularly check for oil leaks around the sending unit and promptly address any issues to prevent damage.
Clean Electrical Connections — Ensure the electrical connectors are clean and free of corrosion to maintain accurate readings.
Monitor Oil Levels — Keep an eye on your engine’s oil levels and top up as needed to maintain proper oil pressure.
Best Practices to Make It Last Longer
To ensure the longevity of your oil pressure sending unit, follow these best practices:
Avoid Over-Tightening — When installing the sending unit, avoid over-tightening to prevent damaging the threads and causing leaks.
Use the Correct Tools — To avoid physical damage, always use the proper tools to install and remove the sending unit.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines — Adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and guidelines for your vehicle.
Stay Alert to Symptoms — Pay attention to any warning signs of a failing sending unit, such as erratic gauge readings or warning lights, and address them promptly.
By following these tips and best practices, you can keep your oil pressure sending unit in top shape, ensure accurate oil pressure monitoring, and protect your engine from potential damage.
Use Quality Oil Pressure Sending Units from Newparts.com
Using high-quality components ensures your vehicle’s engine runs smoothly and efficiently, and your oil pressure sending unit is no exception. At Newparts.com, we offer a wide range of premium oil pressure sending units designed to meet or exceed OEM standards.
Our products are built to withstand the harsh conditions of your engine environment, providing reliable performance and accurate readings. By choosing a quality oil pressure sending unit from Newparts.com, you are investing in the longevity and health of your engine.
Don’t wait until a malfunction causes serious damage — take proactive steps to maintain your vehicle’s performance. Visit Newparts.com today to find the perfect oil pressure sending unit for your car and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve chosen the best for your engine.
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