Q: Oil sending unit

asked by on November 11, 2016

Is the Oil sending unit the same thing as oil pressure switch? I've been told they are same thing but also have told they are 2 different parts. just a little confused.. On my 2000 taurus, the oil light flickers after parking or while idling. I dont see it come on while driving. Was told that was oil sending unit problem. But others said need to change oil pressure switch. So are those same or 2 different parts and which one would I need

Oil level is low Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Oil Pressure Sensor Replacement $104.83 - $442.63 Get a Quote

Hey there. The two parts are different in their operation but performs the same function. The oil pressure sender is a variable resistor sensor that will increase and decrease resistance as the oil pressure goes up and down. This sensor will control a gauge to go up and down with the pressure. The oil pressure switch will be a closed or open circuit. The switch depending on calibration will close a circuit turning on the oil light on the dash when the oil pressure gets below a set amount or causing a gauge to go to a set reading when you have pressure and drop to nothing if it falls below set limit.

You may have one or the other type part on your engine but will not have both on your vehicle. You will need to have the oil pressure checked with a mechanical gauge to verify the pressures are within specifications and the replace the oil pressure sender or switch as necessary.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I adjust the pedals?
Each of your pedals (two if you have an automatic transmission, three if you have a manual) can adjust so that they sit at the ideal level for your feet. Adjusting your pedals requires a few simple steps. Locate the...
Problem with acceleration.
This could be a couple of different issues and would need a qualified mechanic to drive the vehicle to see if it is your transmission or engine causing the acceleration problem. The transmissions in these cars were known to have...
What does the shift P Warning Light mean?
The shift P Warning Light is located on the instrument panel. This light illuminates when the vehicle is turned off, but the shifter is not in the P position. Either turn the vehicle back on, or move the shifter into...
Electrical signal to the injectors randomly malfunction
Hello. The issue you are experiencing is likely an intermittent crank position sensor failure. The crank position sensor is largely responsible for the fuel injector pulse because the pulse is alternated when the sensor passes certain points on the crank. If...
While highway driving, car stopped accelerating & became inoperative
This message indicates there is a problem in the anti-lock braking and/or electronic stability program system. If the problem is severe enough, the vehicle will go into limp mode, as you experienced. The root cause could be anything from a...
Misfire in cylinder number 8.
Hi there. The issue could be the spark plug not firing on cylinder 8, the fuel injector not atomizing on cylinder 8, or there could be a burned valve or a burned head gasket. Check the spark plug on cylinder...
I have a 2002 Ford Escape brake light comes on while driving once I turn of the car the brake lights turns off . Today I try to
The red brake light can only be illuminated for three reasons. One of these reasons will only occur on certain vehicles. The main two reasons are low brake fluid level which you verified to be full, and the parking brake...
Hi Russell, I have a 2005 RX8, which I love!! It's in excellent condition, 80k miles. My teenage son blew my engine, can you do s
Hello Mary, thank you for writing in. The vehicle will need to be inspected before we know what needs to be done. Most of the time, the engine can be repaired, overhauled or rebuilt, or replaced (worst case scenario). An...
My car rattles when I start it up but stops after that
If the noise started immediately after your new starter was installed, the noise may relate to the installation and/or the starter might be defective. Normally, the supplier warrants the part, and labor, so you should check to see if there...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Skier
When When summer ends, skiers start thinking about hitting the hills, and that means having to contend with winter driving conditions. Not just any vehicle is going to get the job done. We have evaluated several used ski-worthy vehicles, and...
How Long Does a Mass Airflow Sensor Last?
The The right amount of air and fuel in your engine is a vital component in keeping the engine running as it should. Making sure that all of the vital components of the air and fuel system are running at...
How to Replace a Washer Fluid Level Switch
The washer fluid level switch fails when the Windshield Fluid Warning Light stays illuminated or there are unusual noises coming from the washer pump.