Dodge Dart P0520: Oil Pressure Switch/Sensor → Circuit

The OBD2 code P0520 can be used to indicate trouble.  It’s generic, which means that it has the same meaning for the Dodge Dart as it would any other vehicle.  P0520 indicates that the oil pressure sensor is operating outside of its normal “range”.  This is usually caused by either a defective oil pressure sensor switch, or wiring problems.

Your Dart’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 signal triggers an oil warning light.

A serious problem could arise if the red oil warning lamp is lit.  It is possible for the oil pressure sensor to be bad.  If there's no oil pressure, then P0520 could occur.

The P0520 Quick Facts

• Most common is an oil pressure sensor.
• You can also get it from low oil pressure.
• If you hear knocking or have the low oil pressure light, don’t drive until P0520 is diagnosed.
• Related to P0521.

P0520 Symptoms:  Dodge Dart

It is common to not notice any symptoms, other than the check engine lamp.  You may have low oil pressure if your engine makes unusual sounds (clacky or metallic). 

P0520 Causes:  Dodge Dart

• Oil Pressure Sensor It is possible that P0520 was caused by an oil pressure sensor. However, it would be prudent to inspect the oil level and quality as well as the wiring before assuming any responsibility.
• Oil Pressure Sensor Wiring If P0520 is displayed, it means that the signal coming from the oil pressure sensors has gone through a circuit problem.  It could be a problem with the wiring.
• You can have low or no oil 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 or dirty oil- If your Dart’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.

Diagnosis Dart P0520

Below are steps to help a mechanic diagnose the problem.  

1. Examine the oil

First, check your oil level.  If it’s full make sure that it looks healthy.  It may have a problem with the oil pressure sensor if it is darkened or stained.  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. Examine 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 Dart’s exhaust and can get brittle over time.

3. You can manually check the oil pressure

After confirming that both the oil level, and the wiring are fine, it is time to check the oil pressure manually.  There are two options: Oil pressure can be manually adjusted gauge to see if it’s where it needs to be.  These are simple to use.  Here’s a Amazing 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 Dodge Dart

It is easy to diagnose P0520.  If the oil light comes on, make sure you check that your oil pressure is correct.  You will be successful in fixing your Dart.