Low Engine Oil Pressure light turned on after having the oil change two weeks ago?

2011 MINI COUNTRYMAN
175,000 MILES • 1.4L • 4 CYL • 4WD • MANUAL
Avatar
RANDI02
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
2 weeks after an oil change, the low engine oil pressure light came on. Replaced the pressure sensor and the oil pump. The solenoid was replaced 60,000 miles ago. The light will come on when idling or cruising down the road; goes away when pressing the gas pedal. What could the issue be? What should we check next?
Oct 16, 2024 at 6:29 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STEVE W.
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 15,113 POSTS
The usual reason for low oil pressure with fresh oil is bearing clearance issues. They are worn enough that the oil is passing through them faster than it should. The repair would be to replace the main and rod bearings and likely the cylinder head to bring the tolerances back up and restore the oil pressure. The other option, since you already know the bearings are loose, would be to try a thicker oil, like a 10W-40 instead of the 5W-30. It might bring the pressure back up and give you some time to decide what to do.
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/high-or-low-engine-oil-pressure
Oct 16, 2024 at 9:06 AM