Chrysler 300 P0520: Oil Pressure Switch/Sensor → Circuit

Common OBD2 trouble codes include P0520.  It’s generic, which means that it has the same meaning for the Chrysler 300 as it would any other vehicle.  P0520 indicates that the oil pressure sensor is operating outside of its normal “range”.  It's usually due to a problem with the wiring or an oil pressure sensor switch.

Your 300’s oil pressure sensor measures the oil pressure mechanically, and converts that reading into a voltage signal that the ECM (Computer) converts into an oil pressure reading.  This is the signal that triggers your oil warning light and appears on your 300's oil pressure gauge.

Red oil alert lights are a sign of a problem.  It is possible for the oil pressure sensor to be bad.  When there is no oil pressure, P0520 may occur.

P0520 Quick facts

• Most common is an oil pressure sensor.
• Low oil pressure can cause it.
• If you hear knocking or have the low oil pressure light, don’t drive until P0520 is diagnosed.
• Similar to P0521.

P0520 Symptoms:  Chrysler 300

Most times, there are no symptoms (apart from the check engine lamp).  You may have low oil pressure if your engine makes unusual sounds (clacky or metallic). 

P0520 Causes:  Chrysler 300

• Oil Pressure Sensor Although the P0520 problem is most likely caused by the oil pressure sensor, it would still be wise to first check the oil quality and oil level, along with the wiring.
• Wiring of Oil Pressure Sensor If P0520 is displayed, it means that the oil pressure sensor signal has gone through a circuit problem.  This may indicate an issue with wiring.
• Low oil consumption or none The first thing that you should do is check to see if there is oil in your vehicle’s engine at all.  The crankcase can give P0520 if the oil level is very low.  This can be fixed by filling the oil with more, clearing the code and resetting the crankcase.  
• Low oil pressure This code will be displayed if the oil pressure is too low.  The oil light should indicate that it is present, as well as a reading of low oil pressure from the gauge. 
• Wrong oil or dirt? If your 300’s oil hasn’t been changed for a long enough period of time, it can interfere with the oil pressure sensor, even if there still is oil pressure.

Diagnostics for 300 P0520

Below are steps to help a technician diagnose the problem manually on your Chrysler 300.  

1. Take a look at the oil

Check the oil level first.  If it’s full make sure that it looks healthy.  The oil pressure sensor may be affected if the oil appears blackened or gritty.  If the vehicle is past it’s oil change deadline (regardless of how the oil looks), changing the oil would be a good idea.

2. Check the Wiring Harness

Next, you should inspect the wiring harness running from the oil pressure sensor to the ECM.  You could have P0520 if the wiring is damaged.  Don’t forget to make sure that the harness is still plugged into the sending unit and undamaged.  

This code can be thrown for many reasons, including wiring issues.  The wiring is close to the 300’s exhaust and can get brittle over time.

3. You can manually check the oil pressure

If the wiring and oil levels are in good condition, you can manually test the oil pressure.  A Manual oil pressure gauge to see if it’s where it needs to be.  These are simple to use.  Here’s a Great YouTube Video This will demonstrate how you can use the gauge to test.

If the oil pressure from the gauge reads ok, you’ll need to replace the oil pressure sending unit/sensor.  If there is low or no oil pressure, you’ll need to figure out why.

Conclusion:  P0520 Chrysler 300

The process of diagnosing P0520 can be done easily.  If the oil light comes on, make sure you check that your oil pressure is correct.  Have fun fixing up your 300