[Elmer-Dallas Texas]

I am not a mechanic. However, the engine light and diagnostic say I need the oil pressure sensor replaced. I bought the part and the socket from Amazon. I watched this video. Seems simple enough. (Shop quoted $350. Whew.) Cursory look at my engine matches the video. What should I watch out for as a DIYer? Thanks.

BTW this part is called a sensor. However some of the talk online seems to mix in talk about actually creating oil pressure. My question is: Does the broken sensor have anything to do with the actual oil pressure?

 

[chandler48]

Wear nitrile gloves as it could be messy and we don't want your manicure messed up The sensor has nothing to do with creating pressure, just reporting to your gauges what the pressure is.

 

[HotRodx10]

Looks pretty straightforward. Just make sure you have the socket all the way onto the sensor when you're tightening, and keep it straight, so you don't break the plastic part.

It's most likely threading into aluminum, so make sure you don't overtorque it. threads in aluminum strip out easily. If you don't have alot of experience and a good 'feel' for whatever the specified torque is, use a torque wrench.

No, the oil pressure sensor doesn't create the oil pressure, it just measures it. The oil pump creates the oil pressure. The sensor, or at least the predecessor to it, was often called a "sending unit", so maybe that's where the confusion originated. In any case, you don't want to be taking any advice or direction from someone who thinks that part produces oil pressure.

 

[Elmer-Dallas Texas]

Thanks for the useful input.
I replaced the sensor and red engine light is gone now. Saved about $300.
The you-tube made it look fast and easy. If it was sitting on a bench, it would be. However, leaning into the engine compartment working in a tiny deep space that I couldn't see made it nearly impossible. Lucky I have relatively long slim fingers. Someone with stubby thick hands would be at a real disadvantage.
Even though I bought the specialized socket, I didn't have a 6" extension for my 1/2" ratchet wrench. I had removed my battery and couldn't drive my vehicle. Lucky for me my neighbor loaned me an extension.
I hope it never needs another replacement. This was a "first-class" endeavor.
Thanks for reminder about gloves. The ones I wore were surgical gloves. They seemed to help ease my hand into the tiny space. They were shredded by the time I finished but they help protect my manicure. haha