Curious about the cost of replacing an oil pressure sensor?
Don’t worry, it won’t hurt your wallet.
An oil pressure sensor replacement isn’t an expensive auto repair service when done in due time. But if you continue driving without addressing the issue, you could face extensive engine damage that might be hard on the pocket.
Read on to learn about the oil pressure sensor replacement cost, its influencing factors, and other important aspects to remember.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does an Oil Pressure Sensor Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Oil Pressure Sensor?
- Signs You Need an Oil Pressure Sensor Replacement
- How Long Do Oil Pressure Sensors Last?
- Can I Replace the Oil Sensor Myself?
- 3 FAQs about the Oil Pressure Sensor
How Much Does an Oil Pressure Sensor Replacement Cost?
Here’s a breakup of the replacement cost of an oil pressure sensor:
A. Range
You can expect to pay about $130 to $370 for an oil pressure sensor replacement at repair shops. This includes:
- Parts: $50 to $200
- Labor costs: $80 to $170
B. Factors Affecting Cost
The replacement cost can vary based on these factors:
- Vehicle make, model, and year: Some vehicles may require specialized sensors, potentially increasing the cost of parts and the labor charges to install them. For example, the replacement can cost $120 to $145 for a Ford Explorer and $290 to $310 for a Honda Pilot.
- Part quality: High-quality OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts offer greater reliability than aftermarket parts, albeit at a higher price.
- Location and establishment: A mechanic’s labor rate can depend on the location and establishment. Dealerships usually have higher labor charges for the diagnosis and service than independent repair shops.
Is It Worth Replacing the Oil Pressure Sensor?
Yes, it’s essential to replace a faulty oil pressure sensor.
This sensor monitors engine oil, ensuring it flows adequately through the vehicle’s engine and lubricates moving parts to reduce friction. If the sensor doesn’t work, your vehicle could suffer severe engine damage due to too high or low oil pressure.
What’s worse?
Abnormal oil pressure levels can eventually cause engine failure that requires costly repairs.
Signs You Need an Oil Pressure Sensor Replacement
If you have a bad oil pressure sensor, you might notice signs such as:
- Lit or blinking oil pressure light even after refilling engine oil
- Illuminated check engine light
- Odd engine noises due to friction from low oil pressure
- Reduced engine performance
- Engine overheating
- Activated limp mode (a safety feature that turns off non-essential functions to prevent additional damage)
- Inaccurate oil pressure readings
How Long Do Oil Pressure Sensors Last?
An oil pressure sensor can last between 30,000 and 65,000 miles before showing signs of wear or damage.
However, improper maintenance, harsh weather, and rough driving conditions can hasten its wear. So, if you frequently notice a lit oil light or check engine light, it’s best to have a mechanic check your oil system’s health.
Can I Replace the Oil Sensor Myself?
Although replacing a bad engine oil pressure is possible, it’s risky! So, the procedure should be left to professionals.
Here’s why:
Before replacing the faulty sensor, it’s important to diagnose the issue to ensure it’s the oil pressure sensor that’s the cause of the problem. On top of that, if the sensor is improperly installed, it can make your vehicle unfit to drive.
3 FAQs about the Oil Pressure Sensor
Here are answers to common doubts you may have about oil pressure sensors:
1. What Does an Oil Pressure Sensor Do?
The oil pressure sensor monitors oil pressure as the lubricant flows through the vehicle’s engine. It then reports that pressure reading to the Engine Control Unit (ECU).
By doing so, a functional oil pressure sensor helps:
- Prevent poor lubrication and hastened engine wear
- Ensure optimal engine performance
- Keep you safe on the road by preventing sudden engine failure
If the pressure is too low or high, the ECU triggers the oil light and logs the relevant diagnostic trouble code. In some cases, it may even shut off the engine.
2. How Can I Make My Oil Pressure Sensor Last Longer?
You can prolong your oil pressure sensor’s lifespan by:
- Refraining from driving with low pressure or oil level
- Following your vehicle’s recommended oil filter and oil change schedule
- Avoiding rough driving
- Regularly cleaning debris around the sensor and engine
3. How Can You Test an Oil Pressure Sensor?
Here’s what a mechanic would do to test for a faulty oil pressure sensor:
- Check the oil level and inspect for damage or an oil leak. A low oil level indicates the sensor could be working fine. However, they’ll recommend an oil change if the fluid is contaminated.
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to check for related engine light codes. If it’s a bad sensor, you may see codes like P0520, P0521, etc.
- Inspect the electrical connections for loose wires, corrosion, or damage. If the electrical connections are faulty, they’ll replace them before testing for a bad sensor.
- Perform a manual pressure test by connecting an oil pressure gauge to the sensor. A mechanic will then verify whether the oil pressure reading is within specification. If not, you may have a faulty sensor.
- They may also test the resistance and voltage of the sensor with a multimeter to see if the readings are within specification.
Fix Oil Pressure Sensor Woes with AutoNation Mobile Service
The oil pressure sensor is an essential engine component that ensures your vehicle runs smoothly. That’s why you shouldn’t delay replacing a faulty oil pressure sensor.
Suspect your oil pressure sensor is bad?
AutoNation Mobile Service mechanics can test and fix it right from your driveway.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance company that runs seven days a week. Our services come with upfront pricing and a 12-month, 12,000-mile repair warranty.
Schedule an appointment today to have our technicians fix any of your auto issues, whether a faulty sensor or an oil filter replacement.