Low oil pressure

Tiny
SHANE TAYLOR
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 CHEVROLET TAHOE
  • 5.3L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • 250,000 MILES
I noticed while driving last week a low coolant light came on. My mother's house was a couple blocks away so I quickly went there. It never ran hotter than normal, however I noticed my oil pressure was at 40 on the gauge and it normally runs higher. I added water to the radiator which wasn't very much so I'm guessing it barely tripped that sensor. I looked around for a water leak but couldn't see any. So, I focused on the oil issue. I turned off the motor and checked the oil which was at the proper level. I cranked it back up and at a good rev up the pressure gauge wouldn't crest that 40 mark. So, I turned it off and left it there and am trying to determine if it's the pump or maybe the o ring on the pickup tube. Any input on this dilemma is greatly appreciated. Thanks. Oh, and upon checking oil I did notice the dip stick was warmer than normal.
Wednesday, June 22nd, 2022 AT 10:54 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

Are you experiencing any drivability issues?

This could be due to a bad pressure sensor, the oil pressure gauge (those have a tendency to go bad due to faulty stepper motor), or the oil pressure is actually lower than it should be.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/high-or-low-engine-oil-pressure

A good first step would be to test the oil pressure. If the oil pressure is good, then you are looking at either a sensor or a gauge issue.

You will need an oil pressure test gauge to check the oil pressure.
I have attached the oil pressure test procedure and the oil sensor information below for your reference.

Let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
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Wednesday, June 22nd, 2022 AT 12:49 PM

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