Low oil pressure

2002 CHEVROLET TAHOE
250,000 MILES • 5.3L • V8 • 2WD
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SHANE TAYLOR
  • MEMBER
  • 22 POSTS
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.
Jun 22, 2022 at 3:54 AM
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SQM
  • Experienced 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.
Jun 22, 2022 at 5:49 AM
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