Low Engine Oil Level Indicator Diagnosis

Circuit Description

The oil level switch is a magnetic reed float style switch which is closed with oil level full and open when oil level is low. The PCM monitors the oil level switch to determine if the oil is LOW or OK When the Test Conditions have been met the PCM will monitor the oil level switch input. If a low oil level is indicated the PCM will send a serial data message to the Driver Information Center (DIC) or Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) depending upon vehicle model. The DIC/IPC will then indicate the oil level is low. If the Test Conditions have not been met then the PCM ignores the oil level switch input and oil level OK is indicated to the DIC/IPC. The engine coolant temperature Test Condition is required to ensure enough time has passed since the engine was last stopped. The time period/coolant temperature difference is to allow enough time for the engine oil to drain back into the oil pan. The colder the current engine temperature is, the larger the drop in temperature necessary. This is to ensure colder, thicker oil has drained back into the oil pan.

Test Conditions

^ DTC's P0117, P0118 or P0603 not set.
^ Engine speed is 0 RPM.
^ The current engine coolant temperature is from 5°C to 20°C less than the temperature stored when the engine was last running.

Important: The oil level switch is mounted to the oil pan at a level below the full level. Removal of the switch may drain several quarts of oil.

Test Description

1. The Diagnostic System Check must be performed before proceeding with this diagnosis. Go to any DTC's that are set first.
3. With the engine speed at or above 2300 RPM the engine oil switch should indicate LOW oil level. The engine oil is scavenged to a level that is below the switch during higher engine speed and also during some lateral vehicle movement conditions.