Floating oil gauge needle

2000 FORD EXPEDITION
184,000 MILES • 5.4L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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LAURIE HOFFER
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  • 48 POSTS
I noticed my oil pressure gauge was at 0 checked oil it was full. It will go up and down triggering the oil light to come on.
Nov 12, 2018 at 10:20 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.com.

If there is no engine noise (ticking/knocking) when the gauge says 0, chances are the oil pressure switch sending unit needs replaced. The sensor is located near the oil filter and basically just requires the electrical plug to be disconnected and then the sensor screws out. Also, years ago there was a service bulletin related to sensor issues caused by the oil filter drain pan. Basically, that is a plastic shield type component which forces oil to drain in a specific direction when the filter is replaced. The bulletin indicated that the tolerance was too close between the sensor and plastic shield which could lead to false readings.

With that in mind, inspect wiring at the connector to make sure nothing was damaged from contact.


I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
Nov 12, 2018 at 6:30 PM
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LAURIE HOFFER
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  • 48 POSTS
Thank you.
Nov 12, 2018 at 8:27 PM
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