Oil pressure sensor low in idle

Does the light go off when the RPM's increase? If so, it could be either the sensor or (unlikely) the engine.

If you look on the oil pan (passenger side toward the front side of the pan) you will see the oil pressure sensor. Check to see if it is wet with oil. Also, remove the electrical connector and see if there is oil inside where it attached.

I attached a pic of the sensor. Check that and let me know what you find. Also, let me know if the engine is making any noise like knocking, ticking, and so on while the light is on.

Let me know
Joe

What can happen is related to the sensor itself. I have seen them leak through the sensor into the electrical connector. Because there is a leak, pressure drops. Let me hear it so I can have a better idea if the pressure is actually low or if it is likely related to the sensor.

Interestingly, I had a Hyundai Sante-Fe in about a year ago with the same issue. It had near 200,000 on it and I kept it serviced for the owner since it was new. The light came on when he was out of town, so he went to a dealership that told him the engine was worn out and needed to be replaced. The indicated oil was running down the rear of the engine and wanted nearly $5,000.00 to do it.

The engine had no symptoms of low oil pressure other than the light at idle. I removed the intake (required in this one) inspected the sensor, and I found that oil was leaking from it, through the intake valley and down the back of the engine. It was a $15.00 part.

If there are no noticeable noises, I have a feeling (at least I hope) the sensor is the issue. So, relax, let me hear it, and we'll figure it out together.

Take care and feel free to ask questions if you have them.

Joe

Hi,

It won't hurt to disconnect it. I copied a portion of your pic and circled two things. In red, I don't like the look of the wires. Can you confirm they are not damaged? Also, the release for the connector is circled in blue. Press that as you remove the connector.

As far as a video, you can upload it here. It's done all the time.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

The code, P0420, is related to the catalytic converter. That code usually indicates the converter needs replaced. The only connection I could even suspect would be if the converter was plugged enough that it is causing an extremely low idle speed. Have you noticed the idle speed to be very low?

Joe

I have a feeling it is the sensor. RPM's are very low which causes the pressure to be lower.

Let me know what you find.
Joe