Engine Oil Pressure Low
Indicates the engine oil pressure is below the acceptable threshold.
Heads up: this code wasn't in our hand-written library yet, so DiagCoach AI built this page on the fly. Double-check critical specs against service info before condemning parts.
What it means (plain English)
The oil pressure sensor is measuring oil pressure in the engine, and it's reporting a value lower than expected, which means the oil isn't circulating properly or there's not enough oil in the system.
What the computer is actually seeing
The Engine Control Module (ECM) tracks oil pressure data in real-time. A reading below 5 PSI when the engine is at operating temperature and idle can trigger a fault code.
What a healthy reading looks like
Normal oil pressure should be between 25-65 PSI at idle, depending on the engine design and temperature.
Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way
Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.
- 1Check the engine oil level. Top off if necessary and check for leaks.
- 2Inspect the oil pressure sensor wiring and connector for damage or corrosion.
- 3Start the engine and monitor the oil pressure with a mechanical gauge. Compare this to the expected values of 25-65 PSI at idle.
- 4If the pressure is still low, consider testing or replacing the oil pump if mechanically and electrically sound.
Common causes
- Low engine oil level
- Oil pump failure
- Clogged oil filter
- Oil pressure sensor failure
- Faulty wiring to the oil pressure sensor
Typical repair cost
$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?
No, it's not safe. Low oil pressure can lead to serious engine damage.
Will the code come back after clearing?
If the underlying issue isn't fixed, yes, the code will return.
Why does this code sometimes pair with SPN 144?
SPN 144 also deals with engine oil pressure but typically indicates a different problem within the same system.
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