An oil pressure sensor is a device that converts mechanical forces into electrical signals different characteristics. After decoding these signals, the vehicle's ECU judges the pressure in the lubrication system in real time. This is a completely reliable device, but sometimes it can cause a lot of problems for the car owner. To resolve them correctly, it is important to understand where the oil pressure sensor is located. Let's try to fill the gap in motorists' knowledge.

What is this sensor for?

Supply of lubricating fluid or oil to friction units in engines internal combustion can be carried out different ways. The most popular is spraying. For this purpose, there are special holes in the camshaft. In order for the oil to spray normally, a certain pressure is needed.

If the pressure decreases, and this often occurs due to a low fluid level in the crankcase or due to pump failure, friction in the vapor increases. This leads to rapid wear and sometimes jamming of the mechanisms. To ensure that the driver is instantly alerted to a drop in pressure, the lubrication system is equipped with such a sensor. Where the oil pressure sensor is located depends on the engine and make of the car, but every engine has one.

The signal this device creates can be read in different ways. Most often on modern models the car driver will not see accurate readings. Now the corresponding lamp lights up on the dashboard if the pressure drops to a critical level. Older models have a special scale and a dial gauge, which can be used to accurately determine the pressure.

How the sensor works

Most of these elements work on the principle of converting one type of energy into another. Initially, a mechanical force is generated, which either directly affects the sensitive element of the sensor, or is converted into an electrical impulse. In modern car models, you can most often see devices of the second type. Thus, electrical impulses are read and interpreted by the ECU system.

Old type sensor design

Classic pointer-type devices with a sensor are something like a pressure gauge. This is one of the varieties. Pressure is measured by deforming the elastic membrane.

When the membrane is compressed, it presses on the rod. The latter, in turn, compresses the liquid in a special tube. At the other end, its liquid also presses on the rod. The latter raises the arrow on the pointer device. This is a diaphanometer.

Modern sensors

More modern products measure the pressure in the oil system using a transducer sensor. It is most often screwed into the cylinder block. Where the oil pressure sensor is located in a specific car model is indicated in the instructions. It can be located in different places. The readings of this sensor are transmitted to the ECU in the form of an electronic pulse or signal. There is also another intermediate converter in the device body. He turns mechanical pressure into an electrical impulse.

These devices use a rigid, often metal membrane with a resistor as a sensitive element. The latter changes the resistance based on the magnitude of the deformation. The resistance is electronically converted into electrical impulses, which are transmitted to the ECU.

Check Features

If the pressure light on your car's dashboard is on, this could indicate two things. So, the engine has run out of oil or the sensor has failed. The first step is to check the fluid level with a dipstick. Experts also advise checking the condition of the oil filter. Additionally, the engine itself is inspected for oil leaks. If the level is normal, then proceed to diagnosing the device itself.

Most simple option is a deliberate installation working sensor. You can ask your neighbors in the garage for it. But the element must be exactly the same as on the car being diagnosed. Where is the oil pressure sensor located on the VAZ-2110 16 valves? On these engines, the element can be found on the left side of the engine block, or more precisely on the end of the housing near the camshaft bearings. If, after replacing it with a working one, the pressure light no longer lights up, this indicates that the removed device was faulty.

You can check the element using a multimeter. We already know where the oil pressure sensor is located. This means that you can easily check whether power is supplied to the sensor and whether there are any breaks in the electrical circuit.

If you have a pressure gauge, you can measure the pressure level. The measuring device must be screwed into the sensor hole. Then the engine is started. At idle, normal pressure will be about 0.65 kilograms per square centimeter.

If there is no pressure gauge, then another method can be used to check. To do this, you need to know where the oil pressure sensor is located on the Lanos 1.5 (there is a photo in our article). It can be found on the lower right side of the engine - in the corner, under the generator, above the sump.

The device is screwed into the pump. The same arrangement is found on ZAZ Chance and Chevrolet Lanos. The oil pressure sensor (we already know where it is located) needs to be unscrewed and then the engine is turned with the starter. But you shouldn't run it. If oil sprays out of the hole, then the device was faulty. It is necessary to replace the faulty device with a working one. Knowing where the oil pressure sensor is located on the Lanos 1.5, this will not be difficult to do.

How to make a replacement?

To replace the sensor, you will need different tools for different cars. In particular, most sensors are unscrewed using a 21 key.

The first step is to find the element. Then the terminal with wiring is removed from it. If necessary, you can check whether power is being supplied to it. Next, use a key to unscrew the old device. And in its place a new sensor is installed, the terminals are connected, and the motor is started for testing.

How to find the oil pressure sensor on Tavria and Slavuta

It was already noted above that on different models this element may be located in different places. “Tavria” and “Slavuta” are the cars that are most often purchased by novice drivers. The machines are inexpensive and easy to repair. When there are breakdowns (and they are not uncommon on these models), novice drivers literally fall into panic, especially if the breakdown happened on the road. You can repair these machines yourself.

There are no problems finding spare parts. You just need to know where the oil pressure sensor is located on the Tavria in order to screw a new one in its place and drive on. The required device is located on the engine block on the same oil line with the oil filter. In general, on these engines various sensors a little, so there will be no problems with the search. The replacement principle is the same as on other cars.

"Cherry Amulet"

It will not be possible to repair the Chinese Cherry Amulet sedan at the point of breakdown, because spare parts for these cars are not sold everywhere. If you have a spare element with you, then all that remains is to find where the Cherry Amulet oil pressure sensor is located. A photo of its location is presented below.

It is installed on the right side of the engine block ( of blue color). The element is located in the oil supply pipe. Replacing it is very simple - you need a “22” key. To replace, remove the terminals, unscrew the element from the engine, and screw in a new one in its place. The sealant may not be used.

Engine oil, pumped by the oil pump, is supplied through special channels to all moving elements power unit, reducing friction and cleaning them from unwanted deposits. A decrease in oil pressure in the system will inevitably lead to the fact that it will stop flowing into Right place in the required quantity. And this, in turn, will cause increased friction and rapid wear of parts.

A special pressure sensor (PDM) is designed to monitor the oil pressure in car engines. With its help, the driver can always determine how well the lubrication system is working.

In this article we will talk about what the VAZ-2114 oil pressure sensor is and what its operating principle is. In addition, we will consider how to check the DDM for operability and replace it in case of failure.

Design and principle of operation of DDM

The VAZ-2114 oil pressure sensor has a fairly simple design. It consists of:

• metal case;
• measuring membrane;
• contact closure mechanism;
• connector for connecting the transmitting wire.

The operating principle of DDM is something like this. The oil, which is under pressure in the system, presses through a hole in the housing onto the measuring membrane of the sensor. The contacts are in an open state. When the pressure in the system drops, the membrane is equalized and the contacts close. Thus, the VAZ-2114 sends a signal to the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU). The controller, in turn, informs the driver about possible malfunction by turning on the warning light located on the instrument panel.

If the VAZ-2114 oil pressure sensor lights up

So, the turning on “red oil can” on the dashboard signals the driver that some kind of failure has occurred in the lubrication system, requiring immediate intervention. What actions should the car owner take in in this case? First, don't panic and stop moving. And secondly, try to figure out what caused the alarm to turn on.

First you need to determine what the oil level is in the system. To do this, just lift the hood and, armed with a napkin or a clean rag, remove the dipstick. Based on the scale on it, you can determine whether there is oil in the system and how much of it it is. If the level is below the minimum, there is an oil leak somewhere. The reason for this may be a torn oil seal or a violation of the integrity of one of the gaskets. In addition, oil pressure may drop due to severe wear of the piston rings. In this case it is done major renovation VAZ cars, providing for the replacement of piston parts.

Be that as it may, it is better not to start the engine yet. It is advisable to have the car towed to the nearest station Maintenance, which repairs VAZ cars.

If everything is in order with the level, there is no need to be particularly happy either, since more serious damage is possible.

Possible malfunctions in the lubrication system

The VAZ-2114 oil pressure sensor may operate if the following malfunctions occur:

In the first case, it will be enough to simply replace the filter. As for the breakdown, in addition to repairing it, it will be necessary to identify and eliminate the reasons why it failed. A dirty oil receiver mesh indicates that the oil contains too many harmful impurities. In this case, the oil must be replaced with a new one, after flushing the system with a special liquid.

You can check the wiring using a car tester, starting from the DDM connector and ending with the connection to the ECU.

Determining whether the sensor itself is working is also easy. You can check it yourself without resorting to the help of specialists.

Where is the sensor located

First, let's define the VAZ-2114. Its location may vary depending on the type of engine. If it is an eight-valve engine, then you need to look for the DDM on the rear side of the engine on the right (if you are in the cabin) on the cylinder block under. In sixteen-valve engines, the location of the oil pressure sensor is different. It is located at the end of the camshafts.

Checking the sensor

Checking the sensor only means visual inspection. It is almost impossible to determine whether it is working at home or in the field.

So, if there are traces of oil on its DDM body, it means that the tightness of either the device itself or the threaded connection with the engine housing has been compromised. It often happens that the DDM, due to one reason or another, begins to let oil through its body. If you start the engine, you can observe its leakage through the place where the terminal for the electrical connector is attached. In this case, the sensor needs to be replaced.

It happens that oil begins to ooze from under the DDM. This indicates that the tightness of the connection is broken. The pressure sensor has an aluminum O-ring, which sometimes becomes unusable. This problem can be resolved by replacing the ring.

Self-replacement of the sensor

In the case when everything indicates a malfunction of the DDM, it is better to replace it. Moreover, it costs a penny. The replacement process is very simple and will not take more than 10 minutes. The repair algorithm is as follows.

Place the car on a level surface, lift the hood and disconnect the negative terminal from the battery. After this, disconnect the connector from the sensor. Using a 21 open-end wrench, unscrew the sensor. At this time, a small amount of oil may leak from the DDM mounting location. If this happens, wipe off the oil with a clean cloth.

After inspecting the new sensor and its O-ring, install it in place and tighten it tightly using a wrench. Connect the DDM power cable and the battery terminal.

How to check oil pressure yourself

System pressure is checked liquid pressure gauge equipped with a threaded fitting at the end of the measuring hose. It screws into the same hole as the sensor. Next, the engine is started and measurements are taken.

For VAZ-2114 cars, the operating pressure should be 0.65 atmospheres. Deviations from this standard indicate a malfunction in the lubrication system.

Well, if you don’t have such a pressure gauge in your arsenal, the presence of pressure is checked “by eye”. To do this, the oil pressure sensor is unscrewed from the technological hole, after which the crankshaft is turned by the starter (without starting the engine). At normal pressure, oil will flow out of the hole like a fountain. This method, of course, does not guarantee the normal operation of the system, but it can prove that the oil pump is working.

An oil pressure sensor is a device that converts mechanical force into an electrical signal of different voltages, which, after decoding, allows you to judge the pressure in the lubrication system in real time.

Why do you need an engine oil pressure monitoring sensor?

Oil is supplied to friction points in the engine different ways– including splashing (for which purpose), for which it is necessary to create pressure.

In order to save money when tuning an engine in a car that does not have a standard device for monitoring oil pressure, you can purchase and install a budget device from a Russian truck

If it decreases, which may occur due to a decrease in the amount of oil in the system or failure, the friction of the components increases, which leads to accelerated wear or jamming of parts. To prevent these consequences in a timely manner, a pressure sensor is built into the lubrication system.

Reading a signal can be implemented in different ways. Most often, the driver does not see detailed readings and can only be guided by the activation of the alarm with a pictogram depicting an oil can on the instrument panel if the pressure drops to a critical level. In some cars, the engine oil pressure is displayed on a separate scale. In the most modern cars, pressure sensor readings are used not only to monitor the condition of the engine, but also to optimize its operation.

Oil pressure sensor device

The operation of most pressure sensors is based on the principle of converting one type of energy into another. Primary transducers produce a mechanical force, which either has a direct effect on the sensing element measuring instrument(pointer pressure gauges), or converted into an electrical signal. In modern cars, pressure sensors of the second type are used, since the electrical signal can.

Old-style sensor device

A classic dial gauge on the dashboard of old cars (for example) in combination with a sensor is a type of pressure gauge. In old-style instruments, oil pressure measurement was based on the deformation of an elastic sensing element (membrane). Deforming, the membrane pressed on the rod, compressing the liquid in a sealed tube. At the other end, the liquid pressed against another rod, which raised a mechanical needle. Such an automobile device is called a differential pressure gauge.

Depending on the country of manufacture, the oil pressure reading scale can be graduated in Pascals, Newtons per square meter, bars, atmospheres or kilogram-force per square centimeter

Modern oil pressure sensor

In more modern models, measurement is carried out by a transducer sensor mounted in the cylinder block, and the readings are transmitted as an electronic signal to or on an electronic scale. For this purpose, an intermediate converter is provided in the sensor housing, which converts the mechanical force into an electrical signal.

In such devices, the role of a sensitive element is performed by a rigid metal membrane equipped with a resistor that changes resistance in response to deformation. The resistance is converted by the measuring circuit into an electrical signal, which is transmitted through wires or via the CAN bus.

Oil Pressure Sensor Operation

In a serviceable engine that has warmed up to operating temperature, the oil pressure at idle should be around 2 bar. Oil pressure at high speeds (as a rule, for most engines this is .) from 4.5 to 6.5 bar. If the pressure fluctuates within acceptable limits, the contacts in the electrical converter circuit are open and the oil on the dashboard does not burn.

The average oil pressure level is affected by the vehicle's altitude above sea level.

Overall, the oil pressure sensor is reliable and rarely fails. Most often, troubles happen with the seal, which prevents oil from leaking out of the cylinder block. It is necessary to monitor its condition, since in the event of an oil leak, it ends up on a hot block, which can lead to a fire.

Reasons for the drop in oil pressure in the system

Too low or too high pressure always indicates a malfunction of the engine or at least the oil pump.

If the pressure is high, there may be a blockage somewhere in the system. Perhaps the oil channels in the walls are clogged, or perhaps clogged with wear products.

If the pressure is too low, it may be a weakening spring or general wear of the oil pump.

Situations where incorrect pressure occurs can be different, and they are not necessarily associated with breakdowns. For example, when starting the engine, the pressure in the system in which it circulates may be normal, but after warming up to operating temperature, drop to almost zero. This is due to a drop in oil density when heated.

December 16, 2017

An automobile internal combustion engine is unable to function for a long time without abundant lubrication of the rubbing elements. So that the driver can constantly monitor the presence of oil in the engine, a special indicator is displayed on the instrument panel that lights up when there is a lack of lubricating fluid. If, due to some malfunction, the light does not give a signal, the main parts of the power unit - the crankshaft and the cylinder-piston group - will be at risk of failure. So, in case of the slightest suspicion, you need to be able to check the oil pressure sensor.

How does the indicator work?

On the vast majority of new cars, manufacturers install an emergency indicator in the form of a red warning light that lights up when the engine oil pressure is insufficient. The “control” lights up when the ignition is turned on and goes out a few seconds after starting the engine, provided that the lubrication system is functioning properly.

The signal circuit includes the following elements connected in series by wires into an electrical circuit:

• an oil sensor mounted in one of the engine channels;
• a light bulb or LED on the instrument panel;
• ignition switch contact group;
• power source – on-board power supply or battery.

Initially, the circuit is closed, so after turning the key in the lock, the indicator lights up. When a working power unit is started, the lubricant pressure in the channels increases and affects the sensitive element of the meter. As a result, the electrical circuit is broken and the lamp on the dashboard goes out.

The operating principle of the oil pressure sensor is extremely simple: an elastic membrane is installed inside the device body, which is in direct contact with the engine lubricant. When the oil pump creates sufficient pressure in the system, the membrane bends and, through a pusher, opens the group of contacts. When the pressure drops, the opposite effect occurs - the membrane returns to its original state and the circuit is closed.

Reference. If the membrane sensor does not work as a result of wear or damage, it must be replaced. The internal elements of the meter cannot be repaired.

Pointer operation

On many old cars operating in the countries of the former USSR, devices were installed with an indicator of a specific lubricant pressure in the channels of the power unit. This circuit is not connected to the indicator, although it also represents a series of elements connected in series:

• oil sensor with rheostat;
• pointer device - pressure indicator;
• egnition lock;
• power supply.

The key element of the circuit is a rheostat pressure meter. The sensor structure looks like this: inside the housing there is also a membrane with a pusher that moves the slider along the turns of a variable resistor - rheostat. How it works:

1. When the ignition is on and the engine is not running, the resistance of the resistor is maximum, and the current in the electrical circuit is small. As a result, the needle of the electromagnetic indicator does not deviate from zero.
2. After starting the power unit, the lubricant presses on the membrane, the pusher moves the slider several turns of the rheostat. The resistance of the element decreases, the current in the circuit increases and the arrow shows the pressure value at idle speed of the engine.
3. In driving mode, the oil pressure moves the membrane and pusher as much as possible, and the resistance drops to a minimum. The arrow under the influence of current indicates the operating pressure.

The indicating device also uses a backlight, which is turned on together with the side lights.

The simultaneous operation of two systems - pointer and indicator - allows you to quickly identify a problem with one of the sensors. If the light suddenly comes on, but the arrow shows normal lubricant pressure, the driver can calmly go to the garage and figure out why the indicator is not working. Significant disadvantage sensor with a pointer - large error, deviations reach 0.5–1 Bar.

Methods for diagnosing sensors

The indicator light may not work for the following reasons:

• as a result of natural wear and tear, the membrane sensor has become unusable;
• the light bulb on the instrument panel burned out;
• lack of contact in the wiring.

Advice. If on the road the red signal of insufficient engine lubrication pressure comes on, immediately turn off the engine and stop the car in order to avoid a major breakdown.

When faced with a malfunction on the road, check the oil pressure in the engine in the only possible way:

1. Disconnect the contact wire from the membrane meter.
2. Unscrew the sensor with a wrench and place a rag under the hole.
3. Disconnect the high voltage ignition wire to prevent the car from starting.
4. Turn the crankshaft several times, turning on the starter. If the lubrication system is functioning normally and the problem lies in the sensor, grease should splash out of the hole.

Unfortunately, such diagnostics do not provide an idea of ​​the presence of a sufficient amount of lubricant in all rubbing parts. If you decide to move on under your own power, drive slowly, without revving the engine above 1500 rpm. The best option– call a tow truck or tow the car to the garage, where you can then thoroughly check how the sensor works.

IN garage conditions Diaphragm meter problems can be diagnosed using an air pump and a multimeter in this order:

1. Remove the sensor from the car and wipe off any grease.
2. Connect the clamps of a multimeter set to resistance measurement mode to the body and element contact.
3. Using a pump, carefully pump air into the hole at a pressure of 1–2 bar. A working membrane will open the contacts and the ohmmeter will show an open circuit.

Instead of a multimeter, you can use any light bulb connected by wires to a battery.

The opposite situation also happens - the indicator does not light up when the engine is not running and the ignition is on. The simplest way Check the functionality of the meter - remove the contact wire and short it to the vehicle ground. If the “control” lights up, change the sensor, otherwise you need to ring the wiring and try to replace the light bulb on the dashboard.

Checking the oil pressure sensor associated with the dial gauge is done using a pressure gauge. The meter is turned out of the cylinder block, and a flexible pipe from the pressure gauge is screwed into its place. First, the lubricant pressure is checked at starter speed, then at idle speed and engine operating mode. If there is normal pressure, it is worth ringing the electrical circuit or changing the sensor.

Most car enthusiasts are new to the concept of " Oil pressure sensor“they find out after the engine oil pressure warning lamp lights up on their dashboard - it is this lamp that receives the signal from the engine oil pressure sensor. But where is the oil pressure sensor itself located in the car?

To find an oil pressure sensor, in some cases you have to disassemble quite a few components under the hood, although this is rare, since this device stands in an accessible place. Common places for different cars Where the oil pressure sensor is located is also not so much.

So, in most cases, the oil pressure sensor is located behind and slightly to the right of its center somewhere below - often not far from the oil filter. In some cases, to access this sensor, you will need to climb into the hood from above (through the hood lid) - this is where you have to remove the plastic engine cover or, possibly, a small number of other components. In other cases (usually on foreign cars), access to the oil pressure sensor is through the wheel arch (in the vast majority of cases - the right one), for which you need to remove the right wheel (less often, also remove the fender liner or plastic insulator).

This is what the oil pressure sensor looks like

Table with locations of the oil pressure sensor on popular cars:

Automobile	Where is the oil pressure sensor located?	The most convenient access to the sensor
VAZ 2108/09/099 VAZ 2110/11 (8-valve engine)		Above.
VAZ 2110/11 (16-valve engine)	To the left behind the engine on the camshaft block. A wire extends from the sensor, and next to it there are 2 bundles of wires in a black insulator.	Above.
Lada Kalina	Behind to the right of the engine in the socket of the main cylinder block, near the belt guard. One wire comes from the sensor.	Above. You must first remove the plastic cylinder block cover.
Audi - most models	In close proximity to the oil filter. There may be a second sensor - on the main cylinder block. Characteristic- one wire comes from it.
Chevrolet Lanos	On the oil pump at the bottom of the engine. A characteristic feature is that a bundle of wires in an insulator extends from it.
Ford Transit	Under the front bumper near the oil cooler in the middle of the car on the engine.	From below (when the car is on an overpass or above a pit.
Mercedes-Benz - most models	On the crankcase slightly to the right of the center of the car.	From below (when the car is on an overpass or above a pit.
Mitsubishi Lancer	Behind and slightly to the right of the engine (screwed into the engine) next to the oil filter. A characteristic feature is that one wire comes from it.	From below (when the car is on an overpass or above a pit.
Nissan X-Trail	Below on the block next to the power steering pump.	By removing the right wheel and plastic belt guard.
Opel Astra	At crankcase level on the right side of the generator. A characteristic feature is that one wire comes from it.	Removing the right wheel.
Volkswagen Golf, Jetta	Sensor emergency pressure oil is located on the left end of the cylinder head. Another sensor - insufficient oil pressure - is located on the oil filter to the right of the car.	Top and bottom respectively.
Volkswagen Passat	Two sensors: the first is located on the bracket upstream of the oil filter, the second is at the outlet of the oil filter.
Gazelle (ZMZ-405 engine)	Top right on the main cylinder block. A wire comes from the sensor.	Above.