What usually causes it
- A failing oil pressure sensor
- Low or very old oil
- A damaged wire or a loose, oily plug
- A real oil pressure problem inside the engine
P0521Starts at: Get it checked this week
Oil pressure sensor reading does not fit
The oil pressure sensor tells the car how well oil is moving through the engine. Its reading does not match what the engine is doing, so it cannot tell whether the oil pressure is good.
Check this first
Check the oil level with the dipstick, on level ground with the engine off. If it is low, add the right oil and have a shop look at it.
What to watch for
- The oil warning light is on or flickering. Pull over and turn the engine off
- Ticking, tapping or knocking from the engine
- A burning oil smell or blue smoke
Can I keep driving?
We rate P0521 as Get it checked this week. It is not an emergency yet, but it can get worse. If the light starts flashing, stop driving soon.
Quick answers about P0521
What does P0521 mean?
Oil pressure sensor reading does not fit. The oil pressure sensor tells the car how well oil is moving through the engine. Its reading does not match what the engine is doing, so it cannot tell whether the oil pressure is good.
Can I keep driving with P0521?
We rate P0521 as Get it checked this week. It is not an emergency yet, but it can get worse. If the light starts flashing, stop driving soon.
What usually causes P0521?
The most common causes, in order: A failing oil pressure sensor; Low or very old oil; A damaged wire or a loose, oily plug; A real oil pressure problem inside the engine.
Estimates only. A mechanic should confirm. The same code can mean slightly different things on different cars; the app explains it for your exact year, make, model and mileage.