Oil Pressure Sensor

This procedure replaces the oil pressure sensor on the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8 engine to restore proper oil pressure monitoring and resolve low oil pressure warning lights or gauge malfunctions.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Oil pressure sensor × 1 — Motorcraft DY1164 or equivalent
• Thread sealant with Teflon × 1 — Use pipe thread sealant rated for oil

Preparation

1. Ensure the engine is completely cold before beginning work
2. Park the vehicle on level ground and engage the parking brake
3. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical issues
4. Raise the front of the vehicle using a jack and support on jack stands for easier access (optional but recommended)
5. Gather all tools, new sensor, and thread sealant before starting

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the oil pressure sensor
   From underneath the vehicle or through the wheel well, locate the oil pressure sensor on the driver's side of the engine block, just above the oil filter housing. It will have a single electrical connector attached. Use a flashlight to identify the sensor and access route.
2. 2

   Disconnect the electrical connector
   Press the release tab on the electrical connector and pull it straight away from the oil pressure sensor. You may need to wiggle it gently while pressing the tab. Ensure the connector is completely free and positioned away from the work area.
3. 3

   Position drain pan
   Place a drain pan or shop towels directly below the oil pressure sensor to catch any oil that drips when the sensor is removed. Expect approximately 1-3 ounces of oil to leak out.
4. 4

   Remove the old oil pressure sensor
   Using a 19mm deep socket or dedicated oil pressure sensor socket with an extension and ratchet, turn the sensor counterclockwise to remove it from the engine block. Work slowly to avoid cross-threading or damaging the threads in the block. Once loose, finish removing by hand if possible.
5. 5

   Clean the sensor mounting bore
   Use shop towels to wipe away any residual oil from around the sensor mounting hole. If debris or old thread sealant is visible in the threads, carefully clean with a wire brush. Ensure the mating surface on the engine block is clean and free of debris. Avoid getting debris inside the engine oil passage.
6. 6

   Prepare the new sensor
   Apply a thin coating of thread sealant with Teflon to the threads of the new oil pressure sensor. Apply 2-3 threads back from the end, avoiding the first thread to prevent sealant from being pushed into the oil passage. Do not use excessive sealant.
7. 7

   Install the new oil pressure sensor
   Thread the new oil pressure sensor into the engine block by hand, turning clockwise. Ensure it threads smoothly without resistance. If you feel binding, remove and restart to avoid cross-threading. Hand-tighten until the sensor seats against the block.
   Torque spec

   Oil Pressure Sensor20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Torque the sensor to specification
   Using a torque wrench with the appropriate socket, tighten the oil pressure sensor to 20 Nm (15 lb-ft). Do not over-tighten, as this can damage the sensor or crack the housing.
   Torque spec

   Oil Pressure Sensor20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect the electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector firmly onto the new oil pressure sensor until you hear or feel a positive click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked in place.
10. 10

    Clean up and reconnect battery
    Wipe away any spilled oil from the engine block and surrounding components. Remove the drain pan and shop towels. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

Reassembly

1. If the vehicle was raised, carefully lower it from the jack stands
2. Double-check that the electrical connector is fully seated and locked
3. Ensure no tools or materials were left in the engine compartment

Verification

• Start the engine and immediately check for oil leaks around the new sensor. The sensor should remain completely dry
• Verify that the oil pressure gauge on the instrument cluster shows normal reading (typically 20-60 psi depending on engine speed and temperature)
• Confirm that any oil pressure warning lights have turned off after starting the engine
• Allow the engine to reach operating temperature and recheck for leaks around the sensor
• If available, use a scan tool to verify the ECM is receiving proper oil pressure readings from the new sensor

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