AutoCodes – Pontiac – P1189 Pontiac

P1189 Pontiac Code - Engine Oil Pressure Switch Fault

Quick Answer

The low oil pressure sensor is normally closed. Common causes include Faulty Engine Oil Pressure Switch, Engine Oil Pressure Switch harness is open or shorted, Engine Oil Pressure Switch circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P1189 Pontiac indicates Engine Oil Pressure Switch Fault.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Engine Oil Pressure Switch, Engine Oil Pressure Switch harness is open or shorted, Engine Oil Pressure Switch circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 13,528

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 17, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1189 Pontiac Description

The low oil pressure sensor is normally closed. When oil pressure increases above 1 to 4.5 psi the switch contacts open. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) supplies 12 volts to the oil pressure input circuit. With low oil pressure the 12 volts is pulled low to ground. This diagnostic tests for a open condition of the oil pressure switch circuit. If the engine has been off long enough for engine temperature to drop by 10°C, then a shorted (low oil pressure) condition of the circuit should be observed prior to engine running.

OBDII Code P1189 Pontiac - Engine Oil Pressure Switch Fault - AutoCodes.com — P1189 Pontiac Code - Engine Oil Pressure Switch Fault

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1189 Pontiac?

Faulty Engine Oil Pressure Switch
Engine Oil Pressure Switch harness is open or shorted
Engine Oil Pressure Switch circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1189 Pontiac?

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

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1189 Pontiac code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P1189 Pontiac code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1189 Pontiac code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1189 Pontiac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1189 in a Pontiac related to the engine oil pressure switch fault?

The common symptoms include illuminated oil pressure warning light on the dashboard, low oil pressure readings on the gauge, engine misfires, and potential engine stalling.

2. What are the possible causes of the OBDII code P1189 in a Pontiac indicating an engine oil pressure switch fault?

The code P1189 can be triggered by a faulty engine oil pressure switch, low engine oil level, oil leaks, clogged oil passages, or a failing oil pump.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P1189 in my Pontiac to determine if it is related to the engine oil pressure switch fault?

Diagnosing the code involves checking the engine oil level, inspecting for oil leaks, testing the oil pressure switch with a multimeter, and verifying oil pressure using a mechanical gauge.

4. Can a faulty engine oil pressure switch cause serious damage to the engine in a Pontiac?

Yes, a faulty oil pressure switch can lead to a lack of proper lubrication, potentially causing severe engine damage due to inadequate oil pressure.

5. What are some repair tips for addressing the OBDII code P1189 in a Pontiac with an engine oil pressure switch fault?

Repair tips include replacing the faulty oil pressure switch, ensuring the engine has the correct oil level, fixing any oil leaks, cleaning clogged oil passages, or replacing a failing oil pump.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my Pontiac with the OBDII code P1189 related to the engine oil pressure switch fault?

It is not recommended to drive your Pontiac with this code active, as it indicates a potential issue with oil pressure that could lead to engine damage or failure if not addressed promptly.

7. Can resetting the OBDII code P1189 in my Pontiac make the issue related to the engine oil pressure switch fault go away?

Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing the fault related to the engine oil pressure switch.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P1189 in a Pontiac caused by an engine oil pressure switch fault?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor to address the engine oil pressure switch fault.

9. Are there any preventative maintenance measures I can take to avoid encountering the OBDII code P1189 related to the engine oil pressure switch fault in my Pontiac?

Regularly checking and maintaining the engine oil level, promptly addressing any oil leaks, and following the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals can help prevent issues with the oil pressure switch.

10. How urgent is it to address the OBDII code P1189 indicating an engine oil pressure switch fault in my Pontiac?

It is crucial to address this issue promptly to avoid potential engine damage or failure due to inadequate lubrication caused by a faulty oil pressure switch.