Q: Oil level drops during idling

asked by on January 27, 2016

The oil level indicator drops to about 20 during idling. During travel it will reach the normal 40+. Not sure what is causing oil level to drop during idling.

Transmission Oil Pressure Switch Replacement $158.32 - $745.73 Get a Quote

Paying close attention to your gauges while driving is a great way to monitor your vehicle and ensure that it is running efficiently. I have actually come across this concern during other experiences with Chevy Express vans. When the van is at idle, the oil pressure will naturally be lower due to the RPMs also being low. However, as you accelerate the RPMs will increase, and so does the oil pressure with it. This is likely what your are experiencing with your Chevy. However, if the oil pressure seems to fluctuate drastically, then it is likely that the oil pressure switch itself is failing and will need to be replaced. While that fix is pretty straightforward, it will require special tools and a good hand. I highly recommend enlisting the assistance of a certified mechanic to replace the oil pressure switch for you to get your car safely back on the road.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What does it mean if the message center shows a warning saying “Sensor blocked see manual?”
Your car has a significant number of sensors that play vital roles in a wide range of different systems. If you see the warning “Sensor blocked see manual” come across your message center, it’s natural to feel a little nervous....
Windshield washer doesn't work
Hi there. Your window washer pump may in fact be in non-working order. Also, there is a fused wired in line that may have popped causing an open circuit. It is also possible that your window washer switch maybe malfunctioning...
Difficulty in shifting into 5th and reverse
To answer your question it is the transmission and clutch. The transmission will need to be disassembled and the shift rod bushings linkage and the gear checked for wear or broken bushings and bearings. When the transmission is out, then...
Emergency brake light won't stay on. If really cold in the morning, it's out until I drive for about a mile or so
Hi there. Check the cables to the parking brake (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/adjust-parking-brake-cable) when you set the parking brake. There is a parking brake sensor attached to the pedal and if the sensor is tripped, the indicator brake light will come on the...
What is the average life expectancy of window motors? Should I file a replacement with manufacturer?
Assuming an "average" number of uses, the normal service life of ANY power window motor and assembly will well exceed the value of 2 years and by orders of magnitude. Therefore, your motor has failed early, there is no question...
Can a shop repair one side struts only or do they have to do both front
Technically, it is possible to have just one strut done at a time. But, I don't know of a single mechanic that would advise having one strut done. Struts are replaced in pairs (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/strut-assembly-replacement) for several reasons, the most important...
I have a crank no start issue. I'm not getting any spark
It seems like you have addressed the common culprits that can cause a no spark situation. However another component that is a common failure point in Acura / Honda products of that era is the ignitor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ignition-ignitor-replacement). The ignition ignitor...
I have a 2012 Toyota Corolla S. It has less than 50k miles. Is the engine interchangeable with other years of the Corolla or othe
There was a North American production version of the 1.8L engine and a Japanese version. The engines were different (you must get a car that used the EXACT same engine otherwise you will have problems with the compatibility of the...
Electric Cooling Fan Remains On Even When Car is turned off
The radiator fan will be controlled by the engine ECU (electronic control unit) through a relay. The relay is most likely your problem. When the fan shuts off, it can cause a small arc on the relay points that will...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Wedding Planner
As As a wedding planner, the demands placed on your time are going to be significant, even if you’re only dealing with one or two couples. You need to be a master juggler when it comes to your time and...
How Long Does a High Pressure Safety Valve Last?
Among Among the most important parts of an engine is the oil that it contains. Without the right amount of oil pressure in an engine, it will be hard for all of the moving parts to get the lubrication that...
The Top 5 Selling Cars in Alaska in 2012
Alaska Alaska requires a different kind of vehicle to handle both the terrain and the wintery conditions. While some of the most popular options for the Alaskan terrain in previous years included options such as the Subaru Forester and the...