Common Causes of Low Oil Pressure in Your Volvo

Volvos are some of the most reliable and dependable vehicles on the road, and have maintained their timeless appeal and good reputation for over 90 years. Although it is rare, Volvos can sometimes still experience problems, like low oil pressure. It is important to know what happens when your Volvo’s oil pressure is too low, and what the warning signs are so you can get your car serviced before it becomes a serious problem.

Low oil pressure is harmful to the engine because it is no longer getting the lubrication it needs to run properly. If you continue to drive with low oil pressure, you may cause some serious damage to your engine.

In many cases your Volvo will try to warn you when the oil pressure is low by illuminating the no-oil pressure light on your dashboard. If you are driving when this comes on, it is safest to stop as soon as possible to avoid any further damage. This light may come on for a variety of reasons, including:

• Bad o-rings: If the o-rings stop properly sealing off the oil pump, leaks can ensue, lowering the oil pressure.
• Malfunctioning oil pressure gauge sensor: Sometimes sensors may send out incorrect readings and trigger dash lights for the wrong reasons. If your oil levels are normal, this may be the problem.
• Faulty oil filter: If the oil filter becomes clogged, the pressure relief valve becomes compromised, affecting the oil pressure.
• Engine issues: Whether it be a leak or worn out parts, internal engine problems can trigger the oil pressure light.

If your no-oil pressure light comes on, it is best to take your Volvo in to a trusted technician so they can service your vehicle.

Causes of Low Oil Pressure

There are quite a few reasons why your oil pressure may get too low. Here are some of the most common:

• Low engine oil level: Make it a regular habit to check your engine oil level. Without proper lubrication, your engine cannot perform its best. Make sure your oil is high-grade as well.
• Clogged oil filter, oil lines, or oil suction tubes: If any of these components become clogged, your oil pressure is negatively affected.
• Oil leaks: These can happen in the engine or in the oil pressure relief valve, and both are bad news for your oil pressure.
• Wrong oil viscosity: It is crucial to ensure you are using oil of the correct thickness for your specific engine.
• Buildup in oil pick-up tube: When oil breaks down, it creates a sludge that can accumulate in the pick-up tube and cause issues with oil pressure.
• Worn out parts: It’s only natural for parts to wear down over time. Regular maintenance can help prevent issues from worn out parts if they are serviced and replaced before they break. Check the bearings and oil pump, lines, suction tubes, and pick-up tubes for any damage.
• Bad engine oil: Contamination is rare, but if coolant or fuel mixes with engine oil, the lubrication process is compromised and you may be faced with large repairs.

A&M Auto Services Has Your Back

When it comes to low oil pressure, it is imperative for the life of your vehicle to stop driving the car and take it to a trusted mechanic immediately. That’s where A&M Auto Service comes in. Driving a Volvo should be comfortable, fun, and safe. We understand how scary and dangerous low oil pressure can be. Our team has decades of experience servicing Volvos with oil pressure problems, and we will be with you every step of the way in ensuring your Volvo is properly repaired and safe to drive.

We are happy to service drivers in Pineville, Charlotte, and Greensboro, NC, and take a special interest in European and imported luxury vehicles. Our ASE-certified technicians offer complete Volvo services in shop to save you from expensive dealership visits. We are family-owned and operated and pride ourselves in giving a high level of service and customer satisfaction. Call us for an appointment today and see why we’ve been Charlotte’s go-to Volvo repair shop for over 25 years.