Oil pressure plays a significant role in a healthy engine. It’s a severe problem when the oil pressure light turns on and means you’re in need of semi-truck repair. Whether the pressure gauge is higher or lower than normal, you must address the issue as quickly as possible. While knowing the cause of low oil pressure is helpful, always leave the actual diesel engine repairs to a professional.
1. There’s Not Enough Oil
It sounds like a simple cause, but low oil levels are a top reason for low oil pressure. Lowered levels can be from several reasons: burning by worn piston rings, evaporation, or an unknown leak. The good news is the solution is as simple as doing regular oil checks and inspections. Motorplex can repair any excess wear or leaks.
2. The Oil Pressure Gauge Is Broken
If you just conducted an engine inspection and topped up the oil levels, but the light still comes on, it’s not your engine. A defective pressure gauge is the likely culprit here and is incorrectly sensing issues in the engine. Replacing the gauge will fix the problem, but if not, it’s another defective part.
3. The Oil Pump Is Broken
Damaged oil pumps may not be the pump itself but the result of air leaks causing backpressure and oil pressure loss. If it’s not a leak, which a professional can easily repair, it’s likely from excess wear. In that case, replacing the pump during a semi-truck repair is the best choice to protect your engine.
4. There’s Dirt and Clogging
Another simple yet easily overlooked problem is the accumulation of dirt and debris leading to clogging. When not enough oil pressure can make it through, it signals the oil pressure warning. This issue can happen in heavy trucks, heavy equipment, diesel pick-up fleets, and any diesel engine. The best solution is to have a professional do a thorough cleaning, then an inspection in case of any damage.
5. General Wear and Tear
Constant use of a vehicle or machine will eventually wear out certain parts with mileage and age. Regular maintenance should catch the wear before it becomes a problem, but if not, it leads to problems. Engine wear especially will lead to a series of issues and repairs beyond just oil pressure. The engine will need to be entirely replaced in severe cases if the diesel engine repairs don’t work.
How To Avoid Low Oil Pressure
The best way to avoid costly or severe low oil pressure issues is with regular maintenance and routine inspections. Likewise, regularly change the oil and any filters to prevent debris build-up and clogging. Both pre and post-trip inspections will also keep your drivers familiar with a healthy engine and good oil pressure. A professional inspection or regular tune-ups should also be done as a final precaution against needing semi-truck repair.
The professionals at Motorplex are trained and ready to help catch, prevent, or fix low oil pressure in diesel engines. With shops in Auburn and Spokane, WA, contact us to book your service.
Need professional fleet maintenance? Then Motorplex is here to help. Contact us now to book an appointment in Auburn, WA or Spokane, WA!
For all your maintenance and trailer repairs, Motorplex is here to help! They have shops in Auburn and Spokane, WA, for service anytime you need them.
Call us to set up a schedule for your truck fleet maintenance!
• Spokane: 509-571-9002
• Auburn: 253-245-5400
