1999 Chrysler Sebring

EVIANRAC

MEMBER
1999 CHRYSLER SEBRING

Smells problem
1999 Chrysler Sebring 6 cyl Automatic 159000 miles

I have had this car for about 5 months and haven't had too much trouble out of it but it always has that burnt oil smell. Lately, the oil light has been coming on whenever i'm stopped, at a red light, for example. As soon as I press the gas, it turns back off but I always check the oil anyways. There is always enough oil in the car, according to the dip stick. A few times, though, my car has started to smoke a little immediately after I turn off the engine. The coolant/antifreeze level is where it should be, too, and the thermostat is at a normal level. Please help.

1 Reply

ERNEST CLARK

MECHANIC
1,730 POSTS

There could be three reasons why your oil light is coming on.

First: The oil level is low
Second: the oil pressure is low
Third: The oil sensor is bad

If your oil isn't low but the switch is coming on, then either the switch is bad or the oil pressure is low. Usually when the oil pressure gets too low, it'll shut your engine off. (Trip the fuel pump relay)

Is your check engine light on? Either way, you should have your computer scanned for any stored codes. AutoZone will do this for free. This'll point you in the right direction.

And don't continue to drive your car until you find out which problem is causing you oil light to come on. Because if your oil pressure is low, you'll blow your motor for sure.

If you're handy with a few basic tools, rent a oil pressure gauge from AutoZone. Remove the oil pressure sending unit from the back of your motor and screw in the gauge. Start your motor and read the gauge at idle. Then rev the motor to about 2,500 r.P.M.S. The gauge should read around 45 psi at idle and 60 as the motor revs. I'm not exactly sure of these specs, so you'll have to purchase a manual for you vehicle that will list these specs.($25.00)

If you don't feel comfortable doing this, then you should definitely take it to a shop. You don't want to screw around with your engine's oil pressure. Because it really is the "life blood" of your motor!