Engine Oil Pressure Too Low

What it means

The engine computer has detected oil pressure below the minimum allowed for the current engine speed. This is a serious warning: low oil pressure means internal engine parts are not getting enough lubrication and can be damaged in a short time.

Related codes: P0520P0521P0522P0011P0014

Symptoms4

• Red oil pressure light on or flickering.
• Ticking or knocking from the engine.
• Check engine light on, and the computer may limit engine power.
• Camshaft timing codes set alongside it on engines with variable valve timing.

Possible causes6

• Low oil level from a leak or oil consumption.
• Old oil or oil of a viscosity that does not meet the manufacturer specification.
• Clogged oil filter or oil pan pickup screen.
• Weak oil pump or a stuck pressure relief valve.
• Inaccurate oil pressure sensor reading low.
• Worn engine bearings leaking pressure internally.

How to diagnose5

1. Switch off the engine and check the oil level and condition immediately.
2. Fit a mechanical gauge and compare pressure at idle and at higher speed with the manufacturer specification.
3. If the mechanical gauge reads correctly, test the sensor and its circuit.
4. Inspect the oil filter and confirm it is the correct type.
5. If pressure is really low, have the pickup screen, pump and bearings inspected.

How to fix6

1. Top up the oil to the correct level and fix any leak.
2. Change the oil and filter with the specified type and viscosity.
3. Replace the oil pressure sensor if the reading is proven wrong.
4. Clean the pickup screen or replace the oil pump based on the findings.
5. Repair the engine internally if bearing wear is confirmed.
6. Clear the codes and confirm pressure is healthy at idle, at high speed and at operating temperature.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

If the cause is low oil or the sensor, the cost is small; it rises sharply if the engine needs an oil pump or internal repair due to wear.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions