oil pressure light

1989 VOLKSWAGEN VANAGON
300,000 MILES • 1.9L • 4 CYL • TURBO • RWD • MANUAL
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NIGEL1021
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
With key turned to right, the oil pressure light is bright red, along with other warning lights.

After starting the van, the o.p.l. is on but very dim, cannot be seen during day.

I am going treat as an oil pressure problem, not drive the van.

It is just odd how the light can go from normal bright to barely visible.
Aug 15, 2017 at 11:12 PM
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STEVE W.
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 15,200 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I would put an actual gauge on it and test the pressure, that light is turned on by a simple switch. If the switch is faulty you could easily see a light like that.

However, if that is the true mileage and that engine has never been torn down it is very possible it is a combination of a worn oil pump and bearings. VW flat 4s are known for beating the bearings up.
Aug 15, 2017 at 11:21 PM
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