Where Is the Oil Pressure Switch Located?

Q: Where Is the Oil Pressure Switch Typically Located?

A: The oil pressure switch is usually located in the cylinder block near the oil filter or its housing. Older vehicles might also have the switch wired to the oil pressure gauge.

Pro Tips are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.

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Pro Tip: Some newer engine platforms (Dodge/Jeep, in particular) have a three-wire oil pressure transducer that sends oil pressure information to the PCM. These typically won’t be mounted near the oil filter; some are mounted near the oil cooler.

The oil pressure switch monitors the oil pressure and illuminates the warning light or the oil pressure indicator when the pressure falls below a certain threshold. It also notifies you when the pressure becomes too high. This typically only happens when the oil pump relief valve is stuck closed. Low oil pressure is also an issue with vehicles that have timing chain tensioners that are oil-driven. If the oil pressure goes below about 25 psi on a 5.4L three-valve, for example, the timing chain will rattle and can fail.

Incorrect oil pressure can affect the engine’s longevity and performance, making the oil pressure switch crucial to keeping the engine in great condition.

Low oil pressure is also an issue with vehicles that have timing chain tensioners that are oil-driven.

– Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Tips on How to Access the Oil Pressure Switch

Note that the effectiveness of these tips may vary because the exact location of the switch depends on the vehicle. To start, remove the wire connected from the oil pressure switch to the oil pan. Then, push off the prong to safely remove the wire, which should expose the switch. Use a socket wrench if you want to remove it.

And since the wire, oil pressure switch, and oil pan all tend to get dirty, it might be easier to wipe off the accumulated grease first. This way, you’ll have a better grip.