How to Fix High Oil Pressure

Step by step guide on how to repair an automotive engine with high oil pressure, this information pertains to all internal combustion engines.

Difficulty Scale: 4 of 10

Tools and Supplies Needed

• External oil gauge
• Screwdriver set
• Wrench set
• Socket set
• Flashlight
• Protective eye wear and gloves

Begin with the car on level ground, in park with the emergency brake set.

Step 1 - When an engine is cold, the oil pressure will be at its highest point. If the oil pressure gauge is constantly in the highest position, there is a problem.

High Oil Pressure

Step 2 - The oil pressure sender is responsible for supplying feedback data to the gauge or computer. If this sensor fails it can give a false reading causing the gauge to read at its highest point.

Oil Pressure Sender

Step 3 - The oil pump pressure relief valve is designed to allow pressure to bleed off. If this valve gets stuck it can force the pump to work at full pressure. (Engine oil pan removed and turned over.)

Oil Pump Relief Valve
 

Helpful Information

High engine oil pressure can cause severe engine damage such as oil pump drive and oil filter failure. Once these conditions occur the engine will rapidly start to wear and ultimately fail.