can an oil pressure sensor cause car not to start

[ChaseLee]

Yes, a faulty oil pressure sensor can prevent your car from starting, but it's not the most common cause. The issue typically arises in modern vehicles where the sensor's data is integrated with the car's computer. If the sensor sends a signal indicating critically low or zero oil pressure, the engine control unit (ECU) may prevent the engine from cranking as a safety measure to avoid catastrophic engine damage from running without proper lubrication.

The primary symptom is that the engine will not turn over at all when you turn the key. You might hear a single click or nothing at all, which can be mistaken for a dead battery. However, your dashboard warning lights should illuminate normally. To confirm if the sensor is the culprit, a mechanic can perform a diagnostic scan for trouble codes. Code P0520 (Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit Malfunction) or similar is a strong indicator.

It's crucial to distinguish this from a simple bad starter or dead battery. A failing oil pressure sensor can also cause other problems like an inaccurate oil pressure gauge reading or a warning light that stays on when the oil level is normal.

Symptom	Indicates a Failing Oil Pressure Sensor	Indicates a Different Problem (e.g., Dead Battery)
Dashboard Lights	Lights illuminate normally when key is turned.	Lights are dim or do not come on.
Engine Cranking	Engine does not crank or turn over.	Engine cranks slowly or makes a rapid clicking sound.
Oil Pressure Gauge	Gauge reads zero or fluctuates erratically.	Gauge operates normally.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes	Codes like P0520, P0521, P0522, P0523 may be present.	No oil pressure-related codes.

If you suspect the sensor is faulty, the fix is usually straightforward and involves replacing the sensor itself. However, never ignore a no-start situation that might be related to oil pressure. First, physically check your engine oil level using the dipstick. If it's low, top it up. If the oil level is correct, then the sensor is the likely suspect. Driving with a genuine low oil pressure condition, even if the sensor is just faulty, risks severe engine damage.

[MacCaleb]

As a mechanic, I see this more often than you'd think. On many newer cars, the computer won't even let the starter engage if it gets a crazy signal from the oil pressure sensor, thinking the engine has no oil. It's a safety lockout. The car is basically protecting itself from you. The tell-tale sign is all your dash lights coming on bright, but you get absolutely nothing—not even a crank—when you turn the key. A quick code scan usually points right to the sensor.