P0523 OBD-II Trouble Code: Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch High Voltage

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Cost of diagnosing the P0523 code

P0523 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch High Voltage". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

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P0523 code definition

The P0523 Trouble Code is an indicator that there is an issue with the engine oil pressure sensor/high switch voltage.

What the P0523 code means

This code means that the Powertrain Control Module, or PCM, finds that the engine oil pressure sender/sensor is too high. The cause could be mechanical or electrical. Most of the time, the issues fall into the electrical category.

What causes the P0523 code?

Some of the possible causes for the P0523 code to appear include the following:

What are the symptoms of the P0523 code?

Some of the most common symptoms for this type of code include the Check Engine Light, and/or the low engine oil pressure light coming on and usually staying on. You may also notice that the oil pressure gauge reading is higher than usual. In some cases, the vehicle might suffer from catastrophic engine failure.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0523 code?

The mechanic can use several tools to help diagnose this problem. They will use an OBD-II scanner to gather data from the vehicle. They will also use a digital voltmeter, and a manual oil pressure gauge. These tools can give them a much better idea of what’s happening in the vehicle.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0523 code

One of the biggest mistakes that someone can make when they are trying to diagnose the P0523 code is believing that the problem lies only in the sensor and not in the engine. If the mechanic only changes out the sensor, and doesn’t actually follow through and look at the engine to determine what could be causing the issues with the oil pressure, it could lead to engine failure.

How serious is the P0523 code?

The P0253 code is very serious. While it might only be an indicator of a problem with the sensor itself, it could mean that there is a problem with your vehicle’s oil system. You could have the wrong oil in the vehicle, or you could not have enough oil in the vehicle. If you have a leak, this is a possibility. When caught soon, it is possible to repair. Waiting too long could lead to your engine seizing up and that would necessitate more repairs or possibly the replacement of the engine.

What repairs can fix the P0523 code?

If the light returns after they reset and test the vehicle, they will conduct a visual inspection to look for loose wires. They will make repairs and replacements as needed, and will retest the vehicle. If there are still issues and the code returns, they can check the engine and the oil passageways. They will check for leaks and repair them if possible. If the engine is too far gone, or if it has a catastrophic failure, they may need to replace the engine.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0523 code

If the engine light comes on and you notice that the oil pressure seems to be higher than usual, it could indicate a serious problem. Do not dismiss the idea of an issue with your engine just because you feel that it’s probably a malfunctioning sensor. While it could be the case, especially in an older vehicle that has more than 100,000 miles on it, there is always the chance that it shows something truly wrong with your vehicle. You don’t want to have your engine stop working entirely, so make sure you take your vehicle in for repair whenever you notice any of the trouble codes.

Need help with a P0523 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

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P0523

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Brandon
9 years of experience
Ford Escort L4-2.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Nashville, Tennessee
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23 years of experience
Lexus IS250 V6-2.5L - Check Engine Light is on - Mableton, Georgia
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40 years of experience
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40 years of experience
Plymouth Grand Voyager - Check Engine Light is on - Lawrenceville, Georgia
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Ford Fiesta L4-1.6L - Check Engine Light is on - Smyrna, Georgia
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