- Immediate Actions to Take
- Top 4 Causes of Low Oil Pressure
- Diagnostic Steps for Home Mechanics
- Repair Solutions and Cost Estimates
- Prevention Tips for 2025
- FAQ
If you're experiencing low engine oil pressure in your 2013 Ford Taurus, this guide is for you. We provide clear, step-by-step actions to quickly resolve the issue and prevent future problems.
Immediate Actions to Take
Before doing anything else, it is crucial to address the low oil pressure promptly to protect your engine. Follow these steps:
Check Your Oil Level
Park on a level surface and let the car rest for about 5 minutes.
Locate the dipstick near the engine block, pull it out, and wipe it clean.
Insert the dipstick back fully before removing it again to check the oil level between the marked MIN and MAX lines.
If you discover that the oil level is low, add approximately 1QT (0.94L) of Ford-recommended 5W-20 oil immediately.
Understand the Warning Lights
The oil can icon on your dashboard means you need to pay immediate attention.
A simultaneous illumination of the check engine light and oil warning light might indicate a potential oil pressure sensor fault or other sensor issues.
Do not ignore these signals as they safeguard your engine.
Set Safe Driving Limits
When you see an active oil pressure warning:
Limit your driving to under 10 miles (16 km).
Keep your speed below 30 mph (48 km/h) to prevent further engine strain.
Top 4 Causes of Low Oil Pressure
Understanding the reasons behind a low engine oil pressure reading can help you fix the issue effectively:
1. Insufficient Oil Quantity
Over time, your engine may consume oil gradually. This could be due to natural consumption or minor leaks such as from a deteriorating valve cover gasket. In hotter climates, oil can deplete faster, sometimes leading to a loss of up to 1QT per 1,600 km. Always monitor your oil levels, especially when driving in harsh conditions.
2. Failing Oil Pump
A worn-out or failing oil pump can dramatically reduce the oil pressure. Listen for signs such as a whining noise between 2,000-3,000 RPM. If the oil pressure drops sharply when you accelerate, this is an indication that the pump might be malfunctioning and needs attention.
3. Faulty Oil Pressure Sensor
Sometimes the low oil pressure alert might be due to a sensor error. To test this:
Use an OBD-II scanner to connect to your vehicle’s diagnostic port.
Look for any codes like P0520 to P0524 which indicate sensor malfunctions or circuit issues.
Replacing a faulty sensor can be a cost-effective solution compared to more severe engine repairs.
4. Clogged Oil Filter
A blocked oil filter can restrict proper oil flow, causing reduced pressure.
Standard filters should be checked regularly and replaced according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.
The following table outlines the maximum mileage for different filter types:
Filter Type | Max Mileage |
|---|---|
Standard | 5,000 miles |
Synthetic Blend | 7,500 miles |
Full Synthetic | 10,000 miles |
Diagnostic Steps for Home Mechanics
To accurately diagnose the issue, you can perform the following tests:
Basic Pressure Test
Tools needed:
A mechanical oil pressure gauge (costing around AED 120-200 / SAR equivalent).
A 24mm wrench to attach the gauge securely.
Procedure:
Warm the engine until it reaches approximately 90°C.
Attach the gauge to the sensor port carefully.
Observe the readings:
At idle, you should see between 15 to 25 PSI.
When the engine reaches 2,000 RPM, the expected pressure should be between 45 to 65 PSI.
Electronic System Check
Using an OBD-II scanner can help detect specific faults. Look for error codes such as:
P0520:Circuit malfunction
P0521:Range or performance issues
P0522:Low voltage in the circuit
P0523:High voltage sensor errors
These diagnostic codes provide clearer insight into whether a sensor or electrical issue is at fault.
Repair Solutions and Cost Estimates
Based on the diagnostic outcomes, here are some repair solutions along with cost estimates in AED/SAR:
Budget-Friendly Options (Under AED/SAR 500)
Oil and filter change: This routine service may cost around AED 250 / SAR equivalent.
Oil pressure sensor replacement: Typically runs about AED 350 / SAR equivalent.
Minor repair such as an oil cooler line fix: Costs can be around AED 480 / SAR equivalent.
Major Repairs (AED/SAR 1,500 and above)
For more profound engine issues related to oil pressure:
Oil pump replacement: Estimated between AED 1,800 to AED 2,500 / SAR equivalent.
Replacing engine bearings: May cost AED 3,000+ / SAR equivalent.
Full engine flush: A comprehensive cleaning might be around AED 650 / SAR equivalent.
Prevention Tips for 2025
Here are some strategies to prevent low oil pressure issues in your 2013 Ford Taurus:
Regular Maintenance Schedule
Check your engine oil level every 3 months to catch minor leaks early.
Have full synthetic oil changes performed every 6 months to ensure optimal lubrication.
Schedule an engine flush every 50,000 km to keep contaminants at bay.
Adapting to Heat and Harsh Conditions
In extremely hot climates, consider switching to 5W-30 oil if recommended by your service technician.
Consider installing an oil cooler to help maintain proper engine temperature; this upgrade can be around AED 1,200 / SAR equivalent.
During periods of extended high temperatures, inspect your oil levels weekly.
Recommended Upgrades
A high-capacity oil pan can be a clever upgrade to increase your engine’s oil capacity by 1QT.
Utilize a magnetic drain plug (around AED/SAR 85) to catch metal debris.
For ongoing monitoring, a remote oil pressure gauge (approximately AED/SAR 350) provides continuous readings to keep you informed.
FAQ
Q1:What should I do immediately if my dashboard shows a low oil pressure warning?
If you notice the low oil pressure warning, pull over safely and shut down your engine immediately. Check your engine oil level on the dipstick, and if it is low, add the appropriate type of oil as suggested by Ford. Remember, safe driving means limiting your speed until the issue is resolved. Subsequent diagnostics, like checking the oil pressure sensor and filter, can prevent further damage.
Q2:How can I determine if the oil pump is failing?
Listen for unusual noises such as whining sounds around 2,000-3,000 RPM. A failing oil pump often causes a significant drop in oil pressure during acceleration. Use a mechanical pressure gauge to assess the oil pressure at different engine speeds. If readings consistently fall outside the expected range, it might be time to replace the oil pump. This diagnostic method is often endorsed by GCC automotive standards.
Q3:Can a faulty oil pressure sensor cause the warning lights to trigger?
Yes, a malfunctioning oil pressure sensor can mistakenly alert you to low oil pressure even when oil levels are normal. To verify, connect an OBD-II scanner to check for codes like P0520-P0524. Replacing the sensor is typically less expensive than repairing engine components affected by actual low oil pressure. Accurate diagnostic steps help ensure you address the right problem.
Q4:What maintenance practices help prevent low oil pressure issues?
Regular checks and scheduled oil changes are key to avoiding low oil pressure. Maintain a strict routine of checking your oil level every 3 months and consider synthetic oil changes every 6 months to protect your engine. In hot climates, extra vigilance—such as weekly oil checks—can preempt potential issues. Also, timely replacement of oil filters according to recommended mileage can prevent clogging and blockage.
Q5:How reliable is a basic pressure test for diagnosing engine oil pressure problems?
A basic pressure test using a mechanical gauge is a reliable method to quickly assess whether your engine is receiving adequate oil pressure. It is recommended to perform the test after the engine warms up to around 90°C for accurate readings. This method, when combined with electronic diagnostics, gives you a clear picture of your engine’s health. However, if you continue experiencing inconsistencies, consult a professional mechanic to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
This article is for reference only. Please adhere to the latest local laws and regulations.
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