Oil Pressure Gauge Issue

September 16, 2013, 08:54:51 PM

I have an issue with my oil pressure gauge. I have read the numerous postings on the oil sending unit, but cannot find the same issue that I am currently experiencing. If I am repeating something that has already been posted, my apologies. I have an 88 Cougar LS with the 5.0 and full digital dash. The car can sit for 3 to 4 weeks at a time before I drive it, and is not driven in the winter. Today I drove the car after sitting for about 3 weeks and after I drove for about a mile the oil pressure alarm sounded and the pressure gauge showed 1 to 0 bars. It went off for about a minute, then stopped and showed normal range. It sounded off again about 30 seconds later, again showing no bars then about 30 seconds later showed a normal reading, then operated normally all the way to work - about a 15 mile ride. This only happens when the car is not driven for a period of time and when I drive it somewhat regularly the oil pressure is always normal and shows no issues. On the way home - there were no alarms and the gauge showed a normal reading. The same thing happens when I start the car a few times over the winter and let it idle. Is there a real issue or is the gauge just acting wacky, and why does it only happen when the car is not driven for a period of time? I do not have an oil pressure gauge to check the pressure myself and I am thinking I need to have it checked by a mechanic. I had the oil pressure sending unit checked by the dealer last year due to the same issue and they stated it was operating normally, though I do not know how they 'tested' it. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Oil Pressure Gauge Issue

Reply #1 – September 16, 2013, 08:59:15 PM

I would try and replace the sending unit on the engine. The guages are 25+ years old in these cars now, I recommend an aftermarket in addition to the stock gauge.