GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Low or No Oil Pressure

The following conditions may cause low or no oil pressure:

    • Low oil level
        Fill to the full mark on the oil level indicator.
    • Incorrect or malfunctioning oil pressure switch
        Replace the oil pressure switch.
    • Incorrect or malfunctioning oil pressure gauge
        Replace the oil pressure gauge.
    • Improper oil viscosity or diluted oil
       - Install oil of proper viscosity for expected temperature.
       - Install new oil if the oil is diluted.
    • A worn or dirty oil pump
        Clean or replace the oil pump.
    • A plugged oil filter
        Replace the oil filter.
    • A loose or plugged oil pickup screen
        Replace the oil pickup screen.
    • A hole in the oil pickup tube
        Replace the oil pickup tube.
    • Excessive bearing clearance
        Replace the bearings.
    • Cracked, porous, or plugged oil gallery
        Repair or replace the engine block.
    • Missing or improperly installed gallery plugs
        Install or repair the plugs as needed.
    • A stuck pressure regulator valve
       - Inspect the pressure regulator valve for sticking in the bore.
       - Inspect the bore for scoring and burrs.
    • A worn or poorly machined camshaft
        Replace the camshaft.
    • Worn valve guides
        Repair the valve guides as needed.

Oil Pressure Testing

Tools Required

J 25087-C Oil Pressure Tester

If the vehicle has low oil pressure complete the following steps:

  1. Inspect the oil level.
  2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting and Jacking in General Information.
  3. Remove the oil filter.
  4. Assemble the plunger valve in the large hole of the J 25087-C base. Insert the hose in the small hole of the J 25087-C base. Connect the gauge to the end of the hose.
  5. Insert the flat side of the rubber plug in the bypass valve without depressing the bypass valve.
  6. Install the J 25087-C on the filter mounting pad.
  7. Start the engine.
  8. Inspect the overall oil pressure, the oil pressure switch, and for noisy lifters. Ensure that the engine is at operating temperature before inspecting the oil pressure. The oil pressure should be approximately 414 kPa (60 psi) at 1,850 RPM using 5W-30 engine oil.
  9. If adequate oil pressure is indicated, test the oil pressure switch.
  10. If a low reading is indicated, press the valve on the tester base in order to isolate the oil pump and/or its components from the lubricating system. An adequate reading at this time indicates a good pump and the previous low pressure was due to worn bearings, etc. A low reading while pressing the valve indicates a faulty pump.