What Causes High Oil Pressure?
2 Answers
The reasons for high oil pressure: 1. The oil grade selected is unreasonable, such as using summer oil in winter, which not only makes starting difficult but also affects the operation of the lubrication system; 2. The oil filter or main oil passage is blocked, and the opening pressure of the return valve is too high; 3. During engine overhaul, the fit clearance of the crankshaft and connecting rod bearings is too small, hindering oil return and causing excessively high oil pressure; 4. Nozzle blockage reduces or stops oil spray, leading to excessive pressure; 5. After repair, the clearance of crankshaft bearings, connecting rod bearings, or camshaft bearings is too small, making it difficult for lubricating oil to enter the friction surfaces and causing excessive pressure in the main oil passage. Oil, or engine lubricant, serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption for the engine.
High oil pressure can be really annoying. It might happen right after you've topped up the oil or when the weather gets cold, making the oil overly thick and hard to flow, causing increased pressure when the pump operates. Another common culprit is a stuck pressure relief valve—this little component regulates pressure, and if it fails, the pressure can spike uncontrollably. Clogged oil passages are also a frequent issue; dirt buildup blocks the flow, forcing the pump to work harder, which raises the pressure. High pressure isn't good—it can damage seals, leading to leaks, or in severe cases, overload bearings and wreck the engine. I've faced this before: my warning light came on, so I pulled over to check the oil level. When it looked fine, I headed to a professional shop. Switching to a high-quality, lower-viscosity oil can help, but always verify if the relief valve is functioning properly. Regular maintenance is key—like changing oil and filters every 5,000 km to prevent thickening and blockages.
