Common questions

Why does my oil pressure go down when idling?

Why does my oil pressure go down when idling?

Low oil pressure at idle only, will most often mean that the engine is low on oil. As more power is applied to the engine via acceleration, the pressure builds up inside the engine. High oil temperature can cause low oil pressure. A defective oil pump can also lead to low oil pressure at idle.

What does low oil pressure mean at idle?

Indicated Low Oil Pressure at Idle When Hot. Indicated low oil pressure at idle when hot. Oil pressure gauge drops to 5# or less at idle and chime starts when hot. Using scanner for readings. NO internal engine noise ( bearings or lifters ) at idle. Engine is quiet. Replaced oil pressure switch w/ o.E. Service switch.

What causes an engine to lose oil pressure as it warms up?

The most likely cause of a car losing oil pressure when it warms up is a problem with the pressure relief valve, which regulates the oil pressure to ensure that there is enough pressure to circulate oil throughout the engine. When oil pressure is low, not enough oil is being distributed to the engine, potentially causing engine failure.

Is the oil pump OK when the engine is not hot?

And again, perfect pressure on idle at starting or short drives. I gotta think the oil pump is ok, due to the fact that idle pressure is fine when the engine/oil isn’t hot. Furthermore, the pressure is ok while driving when engine/oil is hot.

Why is my oil pump not working at idle?

The oil flows through the spaces too easily and the pump can no longer maintain pressure at idle. The pump itself is simply a couple of impellers that look like two gears through which the oil passes as they’re turned by the engine.

Indicated Low Oil Pressure at Idle When Hot. Indicated low oil pressure at idle when hot. Oil pressure gauge drops to 5# or less at idle and chime starts when hot. Using scanner for readings. NO internal engine noise ( bearings or lifters ) at idle. Engine is quiet. Replaced oil pressure switch w/ o.E. Service switch.

And again, perfect pressure on idle at starting or short drives. I gotta think the oil pump is ok, due to the fact that idle pressure is fine when the engine/oil isn’t hot. Furthermore, the pressure is ok while driving when engine/oil is hot.

The oil flows through the spaces too easily and the pump can no longer maintain pressure at idle. The pump itself is simply a couple of impellers that look like two gears through which the oil passes as they’re turned by the engine.

What to do when your oil pressure is low?

The way to protect your car in subzero temperatures is to switch to a lower-viscosity oil (You’ll have no problems using 5w-30 or even 0w-20 in a Minnesota winter on a car that calls for 10w-30) or better yet by getting a block heater. Anyways, by all means change to a 10w-40 or even a 15w-40 and this will get the oil pressure back up.

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Ruth Doyle