Oil Level Sensor

[ericv1984]

When you turn the key in the ignition, but not all the way, all the lights on the dash light up and my check oil light lights up so I know that is working. But whenever my oil is low, it doesn't light up. Is that a good indication that my Oil Level Sensor isn't working right?

 

[melsg5]

Does it say on the panel that it is a "check oil level" light? I think your car has an oil pressure light.

 

[ericv1984]

Does it say on the panel that it is a "check oil level" light? I think your car has an oil pressure light.

I believe the light says "check oil" or has a picture of an oil can. I'm not really sure off hand.

 

[melsg5]

If you have a 1996 owners manual it explains the Check Oil Light on page 2-72. The light only functions when the key is between Key On and Key Start it does not monitor oil level when the engine is running. You can download the manual from here
http://www.scribd.com/doc/39272833/1996-Pontiac-Sunfire-Owners-Manual

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[ericv1984]

On that website, they have you pay to download it. I already downloaded a free one, but it's on my gf netbook and she's at work. She's gonna email it to me so I can take a look at it.

 

[ericv1984]

It says "If the light comes on while starting and stays on, your engine oil level should be checked". It does come on briefly when I do start the car, but never stays on, even at times when I'm low on oil.

 

[melsg5]

Then, as you already assumed, you probably have a bad sensor.

 

[ericv1984]

Then, as you already assumed, you probably have a bad sensor.

Ok thanks. Just wanted to make sure, it's an easy fix though.

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[Zimgxp]

How low is the oil. The vehicles I've owned, the low oil light didn't come on till 1.5 quarts low. The sensor should screw into the oil pan.

 

[ericv1984]

How low is the oil. The vehicles I've owned, the low oil light didn't come on till 1.5 quarts low. The sensor should screw into the oil pan.

The sensor screws into the front of the oil pan. And at times, I've checked the oil and the dipstick has been dry, and the light hadn't come on at those times.