Parts
$15–60
P0522 — Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Circuit Low
STOPIs it safe to drive? The oil pressure sensor is reading critically low — stop and check oil level before driving further; even if it's a failed sensor, the risk of actual low oil pressure makes driving dangerous until confirmed.
What P0522 means
The oil pressure sensor signal voltage dropped below the minimum expected value. This could be a sensor shorted to ground, or it could reflect real low oil pressure. The ECM can't distinguish between the two — and neither can you without a mechanical gauge.
Most likely causes (in order)
- Oil level low (check first)
- Oil pressure sensor shorted internally or wiring shorted to ground
- Connector corroded or pin touching ground
- Severely degraded oil losing viscosity (breakdown)
- Oil pump failure (rare, but real — engine tick or knock would accompany this)
Symptoms you might notice
- oil light on
- CEL on
- engine noise if pressure is actually low
- no driveability symptoms if sensor-only
What to check first
Pull the oil pressure sensor, thread in a mechanical gauge adapter (they're cheap), and crank the engine — minimum spec on most engines is 10–15 PSI at idle. If mechanical pressure is normal, replace the sensor. If mechanical pressure is low, stop driving and diagnose the lubrication system.
Repair cost & difficulty
Labor
0.5–1 hr
Difficulty
DIY-friendly