Your engine involves a significant amount of mechanical parts working together. All that friction can cause problems, which is why your car uses oil to lubricate the parts.

Your car has a special sensor that detects oil pressure and that goes off when oil is running low. Like any car part, this sensor will wear down over time and will need to be replaced. 

On average, you can expect to pay about $120 to replace a broken oil pressure sensor. The typical price range is between $80 on the low end to over $160 on the high end.

Oil pressure sensors online typically cost about $20, and you can replace them on your own without much trouble. 

There are several factors that go into these costs. So we put together this guide on the costs to replace an oil pressure sensor. We will cover professional installation costs as well as parts costs. 

What Is an Oil Pressure Sensor?

The oil pressure sensor is an important part of your car’s engine that monitors oil pressure levels in your engine and transmission.

When oil pressure is too high or too low, the sensor sends that info to the main control unit, which then flips your oil pressure light. That is why one common symptom of a broken oil pressure sensor is the light turning on when there is no issue.

Most of the time, oil pressure sensors are located on the bottom side of the engine, near the oil filter and the oil pan. Modern cars use electrical sensors, but older cars from the 90s and before may use a mechanical switch that registers oil pressure.

How Much Does it Cost to Replace an Oil Pressure Sensor?

On average, it will cost approximately $120 to replace an oil pressure sensor. The typical price range is between $80 on the low end and $160 on the high end.

Oil pressure sensors are fairly easy to replace so you should not have to spend much on labor costs. 

As you can see, luxury brands and foreign models will cost more to replace because they have special designs and components. 

Oil Pressure Sensor Parts

Replacing an oil sensor is not that difficult, so you can often buy the parts and replace them on your own. The typical oil pressure sensor will cost approximately $20.

The typical price range is between $10 to $30. These prices do not include taxes or fees. 

Pressure sensor parts are cheap and readily available. You will have to get a model that is compatible with your car. Like with all car parts, you have the option between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket parts.

We would recommend trying to find OEM parts because they are higher quality and often come with manufacturer warranties. 

If you do plan to replace your sensor on your own, make sure DIY repairs won’t void any warranty you have.  

Factors that Affect Oil Sensor Replacement Costs

Type of sensor

There are two major types of oil sensors: mechanical and electrical.

Mechanical sensors use a series of springs and plates to detect pressure levels. When pressure drops, the springs extend and the plates connect, sending a signal.

Electric sensors instead measure the resistance across a circuit to determine oil pressure levels. Electric sensors are cheaper to replace because they are easier to integrate into your car’s electrical systems. 

Make/model

The make and model of your car will also affect replacement costs. Some cars may use special components or require special tools to access the pressure sensor for replacement.

Luxury brands and foreign cars will probably be more expensive. 

Age of your car

Your car’s age also matters. Oil pressure sensors don’t have a standard replacement schedule, but the older your car, the more likely you will have to replace the sensor. 

Signs of a Broken Oil Pressure Sensor

Here are the most common signs of a broken oil pressure sensor. 

Oil Pressure Light

If you have a modern car, then there should be a light on your dashboard specifically for notifying you of low oil pressure. On most cars, the light looks like a small oil can and blinks red.

Depending on the model of your car, you may get a generic check engine light notification instead. The light turns on when your sensor cannot detect oil pressure, but it can also be a sign of low oil. 

Incorrect Dial Readings

If the sensor is broken, then your gauges and dials won’t display the correct information about oil pressure. If your dial will not move or it is showing obviously incorrect levels, then your oil pressure sensor is the likely culprit.

Once you replace the sensor, your dial should go back to normal. 

Blinking Oil Light

In some modern cars, the oil pressure light will blink on and off when the sensor is broken. This can alarm some drivers as they think there might be a problem with their engine and oil.

If your light is blinking, then the sensor is likely broken and needs to be replaced. 

Bad Smell

Oil can get pretty hot in the engine and can actually melt the wires of the sensor, causing it to malfunction. If you smell an acrid burning odor, it could be due to your oil overheating. Your engine overheating can damage the sensor. 

How to Replace an Oil Pressure Sensor

Replacing an oil sensor is a relatively simple job that can be done at home.

First, locate the oil pressure sensor. In most cars, the sensor is located on top of the engine, near the back.

If you can’t find your sensor, consult the repair manual. Next, unplug the electrical connector and slowly pull the connector out. You may have to remove debris around the seal. 

Remove the sensor with the wrench or the screwdriver. You may have to apply thread sealant to the new sensor threads before you replace the part. Slowly screw it in py hand, then use the wrench to tighten the sensor in place.

Make sure you don’t screw the sensor too tight. Afterward, test the sensor to make sure it is working properly. If you don’t have a tool to test your oil pressure, you will have to take it to a mechanic to get tests done. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to replace an oil pressure sensor?

On average, it will cost about $120 to replace an oil pressure sensor. The normal price range is between $80 to $160. Oil pressure sensors are fairly easy to replace so you won’t have to spend much on labor costs. 

How often should I replace my oil pressure sensor?

Generally speaking, there is no set schedule for replacing your oil pressure sensor. It might go out after 50,000 miles, or it could last the entire lifespan of your car.

Changing your oil and oil filter regularly will help keep your sensor in good condition and extend its lifespan. 

How long does it take to replace an oil pressure sensor?

A pro should be able to change your oil pressure sensor in as little as an hour or two. The total time will depend on the configuration of your car’s engine and oil system.  

Can I drive with a broken oil sensor?

Yes, a broken oil sensor will not affect your ability to drive your car. However, if you have a broken sensor, then you may not notice when you have an actual oil pressure problem.

Driving with low oil and severely damage your engine and transmission, so we recommend getting a broken sensor fixed as quickly as possible, 

Can I replace an oil sensor on my own?

Yes, replacing an oil sensor is relatively easy and you should be able to do it on your own, provided you have the right tools.

Make sure to check your car manu8al to find the location of your oil sensor. The sensor is typically located on the top of the engine near the back. 

Final Words

Your car needs oil to run properly and your oil pressure sensor is a crucial part of making sure your oil systems are working. Without a working oil sensor, you will not be notified when there is an actual problem with your oil pressure.

Oil problems are among the most serious problems with cars, so make sure you get a broken sensor fixed quickly. As always, make sure to get quotes from several different mechanics so you can get the best possible price.