1995 Mazda 121 Oil Light Flickering

MAZDA
Avatar
TYLER38
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have a 1995 Mazda 121 and I have recently had trouble with the oil light flickering then staying on. I have oil in the engine and have recently changed that oil. I also get a "whirring" noise in my engione when it starts :?:
Jul 15, 2006 at 2:32 PM
Avatar
MIKEYBDMAN
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 623 POSTS
You need to find out if your engine is producing oil pressure, or if it is an indication problem. You can remove the pressure indicator sendor and install a direct reading gauge to see if you have oil pressure. Should have atleast 15-20 psi at idle even when the engine is warm. When it first starts, it should be around 40 psi, and as it warms up it will go lower. But never below 15 psi at idle, and should be around 40 psi with the engine rev'd up.
If you do see this pressure when you start, shut it off fast, and repair your oil pump. You can destroy the engine by running with low oil pressure.
If your oil pressure is fine, then you have an indication problem with probably a loose wire or bad connection.
Good luck
Jul 16, 2006 at 7:39 AM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Suggested Repair

Install a mechanical oil-pressure gauge in place of the sender. Expect about 40 psi at startup and at least 15-20 psi at warm idle, and about 40 psi when revved. If pressure is low, shut the engine off immediately and repair the oil pump to avoid engine damage. If pressure is normal, check for a loose wire, bad connection, or faulty oil-pressure sender.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1995 Mazda 121 reported an oil light that flickered and then stayed on despite a recent oil change and adequate oil, plus a whirring noise at startup. The expert advised verifying actual oil pressure with a direct-reading gauge rather than relying on the warning light. Low pressure requires an immediate shutdown and oil-pump repair; normal pressure points to a wiring or sender indication problem.

Related Repair Questions

Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle