Decades

Hi guys im looking at buying a 1995 es300. Everything about the car is good except for a few things. First, the oil pressure light is on. I want to test the pressure so il bring a guage, where can I find the oil pressure sensor so that I can put my gauge in that hole, and what oil pressure should I have as normal? Secondly the idle is poor and sometimes dies. I am almost certain that this is the Idle Air Control Valve so hopefully cleaning it will fix that problem.

Thanks in advance
-Marcus

HomerJay

Low oil pressure is a major red flag. Although it could be a faulty sending unit, combined with the other problems may be an indication of pending engine failure. Did you ask the owner about the history of the car? Also, how many miles and asking price?

Decades

It has 300k Kilometres. The history seems pretty rock solid, its a two owner car and he hasnt had much go wrong with the car. The timing belt was replaced which is good and it has regular oil changes. The asking price is 900 dollars Canadian, which is really good especially considering the interior and body are in mint condition.

nsghtbrwry

I think the oil pressure sensor is on the timing belt side, don't remember exactly. Check the oil level as well.

Oro

Also, look in the valve cover via the oil fill hole for sludge. Especially if you find the pressure is in fact low. A badly sludged engine can clog the oil pick-up screen and create a genuine low-pressure situation. Plus, it can create enough valve train drag to cause idle instability.

This is not a death sentence; it can be treated but requires immediate attention.

HomerJay

Going back to my earlier question it would be good to know the history. If it is low oil pressure how long has it been driven with the light on? I would not be swayed by the appearance, there may be some serious costly mechanical repairs especially if you need to pay a shop to diagnose and repair.

ikecalle

Most likely would be the oil pressure sensor is faulty, next likely would be the oil pump or that the oil is that low to where it's not getting enough oil.

Hayk

iTrader: (1)

I'm not nearly as knowledgable on the subject, however I've heard oil pressure is created by the tight passage ways in the main bearings. So if your pressure is actually low, it could mean a major engine rebuild/replacement. Hopefully it's nothing major and you catch it early to get a great deal.

As everyone else has pointed out, it's a major red flag that requires professional expertise. Two worst case scenarios are sludge and/or worn out bearings.