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Motor oil is an essential component of any functioning vehicle. It provides lubrication to many of the different moving parts in your engine to eliminate friction and help everything work together in tandem without overheating or causing costly engine problems. Your oil pressure gauge is what alerts you to potential issues with your motor oil that could indicate the need for car maintenance. Here’s a quick guide to help you make sense of your oil pressure gauge.

A Guide to Reading Your Oil Pressure Gauge

1. Optimal Reading

Ideally, the needle on your oil pressure gauge should settle somewhere toward the middle. However, this won’t necessarily happen right away. Wait until about 20 minutes into your drive, and then check to see if it falls between about 30 and 45 psi. This indicates a fairly normal reading.

2. Low Reading

car maintenanceIf your gauge reads lower than the optimal midpoint, it could mean there’s an issue with an engine component or the gauge itself. For example, a part of your engine could be worn down causing a small leak, leading to a drop in oil pressure. If you get this checked out right away, you can likely invest in a small fix that doesn’t require a massive engine overhaul.

3. High Reading

On the other hand, a reading that’s above the middle range means you have high oil pressure, which likely indicates a problem with the pressure relief valve or a blockage somewhere in your oil delivery system. This might indicate a more urgent issue, such as a blockage that could cause your oil filter to burst. Shut the engine off if you notice this issue, and get your vehicle to a car maintenance professional as soon as possible.

 

If you’re looking for a car maintenance professional in Spartanburg County, SC, to help you with a low or high reading on your oil pressure gauge, contact Landrum Lube. The company provides oil changes, tire pressure checks, and a variety of other helpful services. The team has over 18 years of experience helping drivers in the community and providing preventive maintenance to keep them safely on the road. Call (864) 457-3956 today to schedule an appointment for car maintenance, or visit them online to learn more about their services.

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