GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit Description

The engine oil pressure (EOP) sensor changes resistance based on engine oil pressure. The engine control module (ECM) monitors the signal circuit of the EOP sensor. When the oil pressure is high, the sensor resistance is high, and the ECM senses a high signal voltage. When the oil pressure is low, the sensor resistance is low, and the ECM senses a low signal voltage. The ECM sends the engine oil pressure information to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) via the class 2 serial data circuit.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

    •  Instrument Cluster Schematics
    •  Engine Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

    •  Displays and Gages Connector End Views
    •  Engine Controls Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Scan Tool Data List

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the EOP sensor.
  2. Ignition OFF, test for less than 1 ohm of resistance between the low reference circuit and ground.
  3. If greater than 1 ohm, test the low reference circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
  4. Ignition ON, test for 4.8-5.2 volts between the 5-volt reference circuit and ground.
  5. If less than 4.8 volts, test the 5-volt reference circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit test normal, replace the ECM.
    If greater than 5.2 volts, test the 5-volt reference circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
  6. Install a 3-amp fused jumper wire between the signal circuit and the low reference circuit. Verify the scan tool Engine Oil Pressure Sensor parameter is less than 10 kPa (1.5 psi).
  7. If greater than 10 kPa (1.5 psi), test the signal circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
  8. Install a 3-amp fused jumper wire between the signal circuit and the 5-volt reference circuit. Verify the scan tool Engine Oil Pressure Sensor parameter is greater than 550 kPa (80 psi).
  9. If less than 550 kPa (80 psi), test the signal circuit for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
  10. Ignition ON, perform the lamp test with the scan tool.
  11. If the engine oil pressure indicator does not turn off when commanded, replace the IPC.
  12. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the EOP sensor.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Engine Oil Pressure Sensor and/or Switch Replacement
    •  Control Module References for the ECM and IPC replacement, setup, and programming.