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AutoCodes - Generic - P0521

P0521 Code - Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Performance

- Code Popularity: 36,729 Views
- Repair Importance Level: 3/3
- Repair Difficulty Level: 3/3
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What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0521?

NOTE: The causes shown may not be a complete list of all potential problems, and it is possible that there may be other causes.
  • Low oil level
  • Faulty Engine Oil Pressure Sensor
  • Engine Oil Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Engine Oil Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Engine Mechanical Problem
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
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How to Fix the DTC P0521?

Review the 'Possible Causes' mentioned above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Ensure to check for any damaged components and inspect the connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

DTC P0521 can be set if engine oil pressure is outside the calculated engine oil pressure model stored in the engine control module. This can be an indication of mechanical engine issues causing lower than expected engine oil pressure.









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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0521 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. The specific diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops can differ based on factors such as the location, make and model of the vehicle, and even the engine type. It is common for most auto repair shops to charge between $75 and $150 per hour.

What are Code Possible Symptoms?

  • Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
  • Oil pressure warning light ON.

Code P0521 Description

The engine oil pressure sensor changes voltage based on the engine oil pressure. The engine oil pressure sensor is a 3-wire sensor comprising the signal circuit, the low reference circuit, and the 5 V reference circuit. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies 5 V to the engine oil pressure sensor via the 5 V reference circuit and provides ground via the low reference circuit. The ECM monitors the signal circuit of the engine oil pressure sensor to determine if the engine oil pressure sensor voltage is within the normal operating range of approximately 1 - 4 V. When the engine oil pressure is high, the engine oil pressure sensor voltage is high, and the ECM senses a high signal voltage. When the engine oil pressure is low, the engine oil pressure sensor voltage is low, and the ECM senses a low signal voltage. The ECM sends the engine oil pressure information to the instrument cluster via serial data. The instrument cluster will illuminate or display the engine oil pressure indicator when the engine oil pressure is low. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects that the measured oil pressure is at least 47 kPa (6.8 psi) less than or 50 kPa (7.3 psi) higher than the predicted oil pressure or the engine oil pressure is outside of a calculated working range determined by engine speed and temperature.
OBDII Code P0521 - Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Performance - AutoCodes.com
P0521 Code - Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Performance

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Code P0521 comments

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