Symptoms Of Engine Pressure Sensor Failure In Your BMW In Oldwick
BMWs are renowned the world over for their stylish looks, reliability, and fun driving experience, but like any other vehicle, it can and will experience its fair share of problems over the life of the car. While some of these issues can be avoided with regular maintenance, which of course we highly recommend, in some cases regular wear and tear will just take its toll and a part will wear out.
One of the parts that sometimes falls victim to this wear and tear is the engine pressure sensor, also known as the oil pressure switch. Below, we’ll discuss what this part is and how to know when it’s time to have a mechanic take a look at it.
What is an engine pressure sensor?
More commonly known as an oil pressure switch, the engine pressure sensor helps keep the oil in your BMW’s engine under the correct amount of pressure in your engine. Oil is incredibly important for keeping your engine working correctly; it lubricates all of the parts working in proximity to each other and helps with cooling as well. When the oil does not have the correct pressure, it can’t be distributed properly throughout the engine. This can lead to friction, engine damage, and overheating.
Because the oil pressure switch tracks the level and pressure of oil in your engine, the oil warning light on your dashboard will usually be the first sign of anything being wrong.
Symptoms of Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
Because the oil pressure sensor is so integral to your BMW’s operation, you should begin to notice signs of trouble pretty quickly once it begins to fail. Some of those signs include:
- Oil Pressure light: When your oil pressure light comes on, the first thing you should do is check your oil level. If the level appears to be correct, it may be the sensor causing problems. This can be true whether the light is on solid or blinking. Do not add more oil if the oil level looks correct, as too much oil can damage your engine. You should also be careful to not drive your vehicle if you hear a ticking or grinding noise, as this can be a sign of a failed oil pump.
- Erratic Gauge Readings: When your oil pressure switch is failing, the gauge can tend to act strangely as a result. It may sit on full or empty, or may swing wildly between the two as the switch falters. No matter what the gauge says, never add oil before manually checking the oil level in the engine.
- Check Engine Light: Because the oil pressure switch is so integral to the engine’s operation, it is no surprise that the check engine light will sometimes respond to it not working properly. While the check engine light may indicate a number of different problems, one potential issue is the oil pressure switch. Whenever you notice your check engine light coming on, whether it is on solid or intermittently, you should bring it in to be checked by a professional as soon as possible.
Presenting Engine Pressure Sensor Failure
As with most engine components, the best way to help prevent the failure of your oil pressure sensor is by keeping up with your regular maintenance. Regular oil and filter changes are especially important for keeping your entire oil system healthy, and can help your mechanic see any potential problems with your oil pressure sensor before they become a huge issue.
Come to Oldwick Village Garage
With our specialized knowledge in European and exotic automobiles, Oldwick Village Garage is the place to go for your BMW’s 
engine pressure sensor issues. We offer factory diagnostic services with the most up to date computers and tools, so we can figure out what is going on with your BMW quickly and painlessly. Once we have determined the problem, our skilled service technicians can work quickly to get your BMW running the way it should once more.
At Oldwick Village Garage, we are dedicated to providing quality services to the residents of Tewksbury and its surrounding areas. We have a commitment to customer service that we are confident will have you becoming one of our many loyal customers. Call or stop by today to learn more about how we can help keep your BMW in the best shape possible.