Oil Level Warning Indicator: Description and Operation

DESCRIPTION

Instrument Panel Warning Indicator:

The system consists of a low oil level sensor mounted to the side of the engine oil pan, a low oil level relay mounted behind lower center of instrument cluster (analog instrument cluster only), an electronic control module, and an instrument panel warning indicator.

OPERATION
The warning indicator should come on during engine starting as a bulb prove-out. When the ignition switch is turned to the RUN or START position, the control module determines whether the sensor is grounded (oil low) or ungrounded (oil not low). If the oil level is adequate, the light will go out in RUN. If oil level is approximately 1.4 liters (1.5 quarts) low or lower, the relay keeps the warning indicator on. The indicator remains on until the oil level is adequate or the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position. After the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position, the module will not reset for approximately five minutes. The delay allows time for oil drainback before another reading is allowed to occur. If the engine is restarted during this delay period, the indicator will stay off, unless previously on, and sensor is still grounded.