Car and Truck Oil Pressure Gauges

Whether you use your vehicle for daily commuting to and from work, for your business, or as your means of tooling around the back acres of your property, you rely on your vehicle to work when you need it. Taking the steps to maintain your cars or trucks mechanical systems keep you on the road when you need to go. Having the right tools, including an oil pressure gauge that can catch small problems before they become big repairs, is important to maintaining your engine for optimum performance.

What are the features of a digital gauge?

Traditionally, oil pressure gauges have used the standard analog technology where the PSI reading is seen via a dial similar to dials found on other gauges that measure pressure. Advances in technology have allowed the development and design of new digital gauges that utilize a digital display for reading the PSI. Recent improvements in the microprocessors used in digital display pressure gauges have created gauges that have precise readings for PSI as well as good leak detection.

How does a mechanical gauge work?

Mechanical units access the oil system via a hose, which is either copper or plastic, that is connected to the system in your engine. Mechanical gauges can also be used.

What does a high or low reading mean?

Your owners guide should list the optimal range for oil pressure. Measurements outside of the optimal range, either on the low end or on the high end, may indicate engine problems that should be addressed before any potential failures occur. When considering high or low readings, these factors may be present:

  • High readings may indicate that the relief valve has an impediment and may be stuck, creating a high-pressure situation within the system. The danger in this situation is that the oil filter may burst as a result.
  • Low readings may indicate that different parts within the system may be hitting their life span limits and may need replacement. It could also indicate a potential leak in the system that should be located.
What is an oil pressure switch?

Advances in technology and engineering have allowed automakers to incorporate greater safety and maintenance measures into the engines of their automobiles. Cars with a built-in switch will trigger a warning light on the dashboard when oil pressure slips beneath the recommended level, thus warning the driver to take action before breakdown occurs.