How are Engine Oil Level Sensors diagnosed?
If the engine oil level warning light is on, or if it intermittently lights up on the dashboard, but the oil level in the engine is normal, a technician will recognize that the oil level sensor is bad. In some cases, a diagnostic scan with a special scan tool connected to the vehicle's computer system may read a trouble code revealing a bad sensor.
How are Engine Oil Level Sensors replaced?
To replace a bad engine oil level sensor, a technician will lift and support the vehicle, drain the oil, remove the bad sensor, and install a new one. The oil (and filter) are replaced and the vehicle is lowered to the ground. The technician will start the vehicle to make sure that the sensor is operating properly and that there are no engine oil leaks.
RepairPal Recommendations for Engine Oil Level Sensor issues
When the engine is first started, the oil level warning light, along with the other warning lights, will illuminate on the dashboard momentarily. This is a normal operation as the vehicle's computers go through a diagnostic check of the vehicle systems. If the oil level warning light remains lit, the oil level should be manually checked with the dipstick. If the oil level is within the acceptable range on the dipstick, but the warning light is on, there may be a problem with the sensor. If the oil level is low, oil should be added to the engine immediately. In either case, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified technician at a trusted repair facility to determine what the cause of the problem might be, whether a faulty sensor or an oil consumption problem.
What to look out for when dealing with Engine Oil Level Sensor issues
A low oil level is no small problem. If caught early, damage to the engine may be prevented. However, low oil is not merely a problem, it is a symptom. A low oil level can be caused by an oil leak in one or more of several places in the engine. Alternately, a low oil level can be caused by oil that has been neglected through infrequent oil changes, leading to engine oil sludge and clogged engine components. If the oil level warning light comes on, the oil level should be checked and topped off if it is found to be low. The cause of the low oil condition should be investigated as soon as possible. If the oil level is considerably low - below the "low" level on the dipstick - the vehicle should not be driven until oil has been added.
Can I replace the Engine Oil Level Sensor myself?
Because it is necessary to lift and support a vehicle in order to replace an engine oil level sensor, the repair should only be done by someone with an intermediate level of DIY experience. Otherwise, it is best left to a repair professional.
