Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The engine oil pressure is too low.
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic OBD-II powertrain code. It is considered generic because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles (1996-newer), although specific repair steps may vary depending on the model. In our experience, the P0524 engine code appears more often on Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, and Ram, but it applies to any make/model.
What does that mean?
The vehicle’s main computer, called the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), controls many sensors, controls, and electronics in the vehicle. One of the sensors, called the oil pressure sensor or sender, detects the amount of mechanical oil pressure in the engine and relays that as a voltage reading/value to the PCM. In some vehicles, that oil pressure value is then relayed to a gauge in the instrument cluster to show the driver the oil pressure. Other times, there will be a warning light if there is a problem.
This specific P0524 engine code is triggered when the PCM detects too low of a value in the engine oil pressure sender/sensor. If the engine oil pressure actually drops too low, the engine can be permanently damaged. Therefore, if you notice low oil pressure, it is critical that you pull over and shut off the vehicle as soon as safely possible.
Note: This code is severe, and you need to act right away to diagnose and repair it. This code is related to P0520, P0521, P0522, and P0523.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a P0524 DTC may include:
Causes
Potential causes of a P0524 code include:
Diagnostic & Repair Steps
The absolute first step here with a P0524 engine code is to check the oil level and condition. It should be full and not appear contaminated. Also, check the vehicle’s maintenance history. If the engine has not received oil changes using the proper viscosity oil and at regular intervals, the likelihood increases that the problem could be worn internal components (i.e. physically low oil pressure). Correct any issues found.
Check for any applicable TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins) for your vehicle before going too far into diagnostics. Off-hand, there is a known TSB for certain Chrysler, Jeep, Ram, and Dodge vehicles where the fix is to reprogram the PCM (bulletin # 18-008-08). We’re also aware of another Mazda TSB that may involve replacing the internal oil pump in the engine (bulletin # R088/12).
Ideally, the next step here would be to use a mechanical oil pressure gauge to test the actual oil pressure in the engine. As a DIYer, though, you might want to go to the next step and check all the wiring and sensor first if you don’t have access to that gauge. You should still locate a gauge and test the actual pressure, though. If the engine’s actual oil pressure is low, you don’t need to worry about the sensor and wiring; the problem is internal to the engine.
Visually inspect the wiring and connectors at the oil pressure sensor. Look for broken or frayed wires, burnt spots, loose or exposed wiring, etc. Refer to a model-specific resource for the location of the sender. Do the same for the wiring and connectors leading to the PCM.
Use a digital volt ohm meter (DVOM) to check the sensor itself and associated wiring, and if it does not meet manufacturers’ specifications, you should repair or replace it.
