If the dipstick reads that the oil level is fine and the engine sounds like it’s running quietly and smoothly, then the light is probably just the result of a bad sensor. In this case, definitely stop driving until you’ve resolved the issue or you could be facing major and immediate engine damage.

When pressure is low, especially in cold weather, getting some engines to turn over and start can be difficult. Oil pressure will likely drop when an engine starts to leak or burn oil. Leaky valves and seals are commonly the cause. This will be evident if spotty puddles of oil are seen under the vehicle.

Oil quality and viscosity: When oil is thicker (i.e: more viscous) it faces more resistance when passing through the engine’s passages, leading to higher oil pressure. Changing the viscosity grade to a thicker or thinner oil has an effect on the oil pressure.

10 psi per thousand engine rpms is a time-honored rule-of-thumb for good acceptable oil pressure. It does vary directly in step with rpms since the oil pressure is generated by the engine driven oil pump.

Factory spec is at least 13 psi at hot idle. There are more misconceptions about oil pressure than you can shake a stick at. Mine has 4psi at idle and 25 at 2000 rpm.

Oil pressure of 28 psi at idle, warm or cold, is very good. While running it goes up to about 22-24 psi. Ideally, oil pressure should be between 25 to 65 psi when the oil is warm.

When your engine is at operating temperature, a typical system pressure may fall within a range of 20 to 30 psi at idle (140 to 200 kPa), and 45 to 70 psi (310 to 482 kPa) at driving speed.

Hi There, This is completely normal for the oil pressure to increase when accelerating. The oil pressure inside the motor increases as the motor works harder. If the fluctuation is extremely erratic, you may have a faulty oil pressure sensor which may also be the cause if it fluctuates too much.

A bad oil pump will lose the ability to properly pump oil through your system. This will result in low oil pressure that could lead to further vehicle damage. Increased engine operating temperature. Increased friction leads to increased temperatures and possibly more problems down the road.

The Oil Pressure Light is on When this sensor goes bad, it will start to give inaccurate readings. After the readings fall out of specification, a warning light is set. The faster this sensor can be replaced, the less stress you will have regarding the oil levels in your vehicle.