2002 Jeep Cherokee low oil pressure

2002 JEEP CHEROKEE
46,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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2002 Jeep Cherokee Mileage: 46,000. My Jeep recently began dropping oil pressure to below 10 psi at idle makig the check gauges light come on. We took it to the dealer, they checked the sending unit which was fine and ended up replacing the oil pump. For a couple of weeks the pressure was between 13-15 psi at idle (we were told by the mechanic that that was ok) and now the pressure has begun to drop to 10 psi or less at idle causing the check gauges light to come on again. The vehicle is running fine otherwise. Any ideas?

Dec 17, 2010 at 10:27 PM
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With 46,000 miles, it is possible but not probable that you have excessive wear in the engine bearings that would cause the low oil pressure at idle. 10 psi at idle while the engine is hot is acceptable though not preferred. Verify that the oil pressure gauge in the car is reading correctly. This can be done with a separate mechanical gauge. Also, make sure you are using the proper weight oil recommended by the manufacturer from a name brand oil company.
Dec 17, 2010 at 10:28 PM