Codes/brands This Page Will Cover
- P0520 Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit
- P0521 Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Range/Performance
- P0522 Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Low
- P0523 Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch High
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What Is the P0520 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
The OBD trouble code P0520 relates to the vehicle’s engine oil pressure sensor or switch and its associated electrical circuit and its operation. It’s a threshold issue with the oil pressure sensor, and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) picks it up. When the PCM notices a signal from the sensor that is either too high or too low compared to the manufacturer’s parameters, it will trigger the P0520 code. If a red oil pressure light is associated with the code, then there could be a severe mechanical problem.
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More About The P0520 and Its Related Codes
The PCM is responsible for multiple sensors throughout the vehicle and controls tied to the engine’s operation. One of the essential sensors the PCM is responsible for is the oil pressure sensor. It relays information to the PCM through reference voltage signals relating to the actual oil pressure in your engine at any given time. Any signs that fall outside of the manufacturer’s specifications will trigger the P0520 and its related codes. For example, for P0521, the PCM notifies the driver of an unexpected value outside the specified range. For codes P0522 and P0523, the PCM notices an oil pressure reading that is too low or too high, respectively. The PCM will notify the driver of this information with a gauge on the dashboard that will show how much oil pressure there is, or it will trigger a warning light on the dashboard.
What Are the Symptoms of a P0520 Code?
One of the easiest ways to detect a P0520 code issue or related codes is to look at your oil pressure gauge if your vehicle has one. Depending on the code in question, your oil pressure gauge will be highlighting a low or high oil pressure reading. The PCM will often trigger the check engine light on your vehicle’s dashboard or even a red oil lamp signal. Aside from that, there are physical symptoms like poor engine performance that you should look out for. You may also notice a persistent knocking or clunking sound from the engine. Your engine also may misfire if the issue has resulted in low oil pressure, such as with the P0522 code. Finally, your motor may shut down or refuse to start if the problem is severe enough.
What Are Some Causes of a P0520 Code?
Many things can cause the P0520 or its related codes, and, most often, the issue stems from electrical faults within the engine’s oil pressure sensor circuit. If there are damaged components, wires, or shorted connectors within the circuit, then this will cause any of the related codes to be set. Sometimes excessive resistance in the circuit or a mechanical failure of the chain tensioners can cause the P0520 code to appear. With the P0522 code, a low oil pressure issue like a low oil pressure condition will trigger the code. Faulty oil pressure sensors or damaged oil pumps can also cause any of these codes to be set. Finally, a damaged PCM is known to have caused this issue, although that’s extremely rare.
How Serious Is the P0520 Code?
The P0520 and its related codes can be extremely serious. In addition, if your car’s oil pressure reaches too high or too low of levels, it can seize the crankshaft and connecting rod bearing. This essentially renders your engine non-functional and can be a catastrophic problem for you. This is why it’s critical to have your vehicle taken to a certified service center as soon as you’re able to.
Can I Still Drive with a P0520 Code?
It is firmly not recommended to drive your vehicle for any period if presented with the P0520 or its related codes. This is because oil pressure is one of the most critical conditions to maintain in your car for its regular operation. If your car falls out of the specified range for oil pressure for any period, then you are risking damage to the crankshaft system and the connecting rod bearings and other internal components. This puts you at risk for catastrophic damage to your engine and can even lead to your engine ceasing to work altogether.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0520 Code?
A qualified technician first will diagnose the P0520 and related codes by visually inspecting the engine. Next, they will check for low oil levels and look at the condition of the oil itself to see if it’s old or dirty. They will also assess the oil filter and look for oil leaks within your fuel lines. Another thing to consider is the oil pressure regulator and the oil pump, injector, or wires leading to the oil pump. The technician then will search for oil leaks or malfunctions within the oil sensor circuit. They also check the pressure sensor to determine if it’s seated correctly and doesn’t have any damage or contain loose wiring. Finally, the technician will take the oil pressure reading on an idle engine and check for oil pressure issues, including low and high oil pressure conditions.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0520 Code?
The P0520 and its related codes can be inspected by replacing the oil pressure sensor with a new sensor. This is the most common repair, followed by repairing any faulty wiring, connectors, or oil pressure gauges. Sometimes, a simple oil change and a new oil filter are needed. In the rarest cases, technicians will replace the entire PCM if it’s defective.
Need Additional Help with Your P0520 Code?
Hopefully, we have shown you the possible severity of the P0520 and its related codes. On its own, the issue isn’t immediately catastrophic, but you want to make sure to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible to keep those repair bills lower and to keep your vehicle running longer.
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