my Volkswagen Passat B8 (2015-2022) has low oil pressure warning

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather all necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Change Engine Oil and Filter

• Steps:
  1. Place an oil drain pan under the oil pan.
  2. Remove the oil drain plug using a socket wrench and allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan.
  3. Replace the oil drain plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s torque specification (typically around 25 Nm).
  4. Remove the old oil filter using an oil filter wrench.
  5. Apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket of the new oil filter.
  6. Install the new oil filter by hand until snug, then tighten it according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  7. Refill the engine with the correct type and amount of new oil (usually 5W-30 or 0W-40, depending on the engine specifications).

3. Replace Oil Pressure Sending Unit (if faulty)

• Steps:
  1. Locate the oil pressure sending unit, typically found near the oil filter.
  2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the sending unit.
  3. Use a socket wrench to remove the sending unit from the engine block.
  4. Install the new oil pressure sending unit, tightening it to the manufacturer's specifications.
  5. Reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Test Oil Pressure

• Steps:
  1. Install a mechanical oil pressure gauge in place of the oil pressure sending unit.
  2. Start the engine and observe the oil pressure reading.
  3. If the pressure is within the normal range (usually 20-60 psi at idle), the issue may be resolved. If low, further investigation is needed.