Mercedes-Benz Oil Level Sensor Problems
It is not uncommon for Mercedes-Benz vehicles to display an engine oil level low warning even if the oil level is full. This warning usually comes on because of a faulty oil level sensor. Follow this guide to learn how to change the Mercedes-Benz oil level sensor.
Follow this guide to learn how to change the Mercedes-Benz oil level sensor.
Low oil level on a Mercedes-Benz may still come on after you:
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- Change the engine oil.
- Checked the engine oil level via dipstick, and the level is correct.
- Check the engine oil level via the instrument cluster, which is average.
Symptoms
- The warning light comes on randomly
- The oil light comes on when you start the engine
- Inaccurate oil reading on the instrument cluster
- Check engine light comes on
- There are fault codes stored in the Engine Control Unit (ECU).
Common Problems
The most common reason a Mercedes-Benz shows a low engine oil level, even if the level is full, is that the oil level sensor is faulty.
Faulty Oil Level Sensor
A faulty oil level sender unit can cause a false reading of the engine oil level and trigger a low oil warning on the instrument cluster.
If the oil level sensor is the problem, the engine will run and drive fine. We would recommend getting the vehicle repaired as soon as possible.
Bad Oil Pump
A faulty oil pump can also trigger this warning. The oil level may be correct, but if the oil pump is not creating enough pressure and circulating enough oil, there is a chance the engine is not getting enough lubrication. Lack of oil pressure can cause premature engine wear.
The easiest way to determine if the oil pump is bad is to connect an oil pressure gauge at the oil port at the front of the engine above the tensioner. Start the engine and monitor the oil pressure. Oil pump failures are not common on Mercedes-Benz engines, but they can happen.
Oil Leak
An oil leak can cause low oil warnings to come on frequently. Typically, you will notice oil leaks on the ground if the vehicle is parked for a few days. In addition, you will notice an oil-burning smell when driving or when you are stopped at a light.
Mercedes-Benz engines are known to leak from valve cover gaskets. Get your Mercedes-Benz repaired immediately. Do not ignore the oil level warning. Top up the engine oil level, drive the vehicle to the mechanic, or fix it yourself.
Can you drive a Mercedes-Benz with a bad oil pressure sensor?
If the dipstick shows the oil level is correct, and the engine runs smoothly and quietly, the warning message is probably due to a bad sensor. Typically, you can drive with a bad oil pressure sensor.
What do you do if you get a low engine oil level warning?
- Pull over immediately and park in a safe location.
- Turn off the engine and wait ten minutes.
- Open the hood and locate the dipstick.
- Pull the dipstick and wipe it clean.
- Reinsert the dipstick and read the oil level.
If your vehicle does not have an oil dipstick, read the engine oil level via the buttons on the steering wheel.
If the oil level is low, add engine oil.
If the oil level is correct, the problem can be a bad oil pressure sensor or oil pump. Without further testing, there is no way of knowing which one is the problem. Call your mechanic for their advice to determine if you should continue driving.
Troubleshooting Oil Level Sensor Problems
The YOUCANIC Full System Scanner is a perfect example of an OBD-II scanner for troubleshooting your Oil Level Sensor problems. This powerful device can read and clear fault codes from all the systems, perform bi-directional tests, maintenance and repair resets, and many more professional-grade functions that can help you determine the cause of the problem.
We hope you find the Mercedes-Benz Oil Level Sensor Problems guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Mercedes-Benz.
