Fort Madison Auto Repair

An engine oil pressure switch is a small part with an important job. It monitors oil pressure and sends a signal to the dashboard warning light or engine computer. On many engines, it screws directly into an oil passage, which means pressurized engine oil is sitting just behind it whenever the engine is running. That location is also why these switches can become a surprisingly common source of oil leaks. Heat, vibration, pressure cycles, aging seals, and plastic housings all work against the part over time. A leaking switch may start with nothing more than a damp spot, then progress until oil begins running down the engine or dripping onto the ground. How the Oil Pressure Switch Works Most oil pressure switches use an internal diaphragm that reacts to oil pressure. When pressure rises or falls past a certain point, the switch changes an electrical signal. On simpler systems, that signal controls the red oil-pressure warning light. Other vehicles use a pressure sens ... read more