Oil Level Sensor

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the oil level sensor on the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost engine, located on the oil pan.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Oil level sensor × 1 — Motorcraft DY-1216 or equivalent
• Oil level sensor O-ring × 1 — Usually included with sensor

Fluids

• Motorcraft 0W-20 Full Synthetic — 0.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow engine to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after operation)
4. Raise the front of the vehicle and support securely on jack stands
5. Remove engine splash shield or belly pan if equipped (multiple push pins and fasteners)

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the oil level sensor
   The oil level sensor is located on the driver's side of the oil pan, toward the rear. It is a cylindrical sensor with an electrical connector on top. Position your drain pan beneath the sensor location.
2. 2

   Disconnect the electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the electrical connector and pull it straight away from the oil level sensor. If the connector is stuck due to corrosion, gently wiggle it while pulling. Do not pull on the wiring harness.
3. 3

   Remove the oil level sensor
   Using a 10mm socket and ratchet with extension, loosen and remove the oil level sensor retaining bolt. Once the bolt is removed, carefully extract the sensor from the oil pan. Expect approximately 0.25-0.5 quarts of oil to drain out. Allow oil to drain completely into the drain pan.
   Torque spec

   Oil Level Sensor15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Clean the sensor mounting area
   Use shop rags to wipe away any oil from the sensor mounting hole on the oil pan. Inspect the mounting surface for damage, cracks, or debris. If necessary, use a wire brush and brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the mounting area and ensure a proper seal.
5. 5

   Inspect the old sensor and O-ring
   Examine the removed sensor for signs of damage, cracks, or excessive wear. Check the O-ring seal on the sensor body; if it remains stuck in the oil pan bore, carefully remove it with a pick or small screwdriver, being careful not to score the aluminum mounting surface.
6. 6

   Prepare the new oil level sensor
   Verify the new sensor has a fresh O-ring installed. Lightly coat the O-ring with clean engine oil to aid installation and prevent tearing. Do not use grease or petroleum jelly on the O-ring.
7. 7

   Install the new oil level sensor
   Carefully insert the new oil level sensor into the oil pan mounting hole, ensuring the O-ring seats properly. Start the retaining bolt by hand to ensure proper thread engagement. Using a torque wrench and 10mm socket, tighten the sensor bolt to 15.0 Nm (11.0 lb-ft).
   Torque spec

   Oil Level Sensor15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect the electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector firmly onto the oil level sensor until you hear or feel a distinct click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked.
9. 9

   Check engine oil level
   Lower the vehicle from jack stands. Remove the engine oil dipstick and check the oil level. Add Motorcraft 0W-20 synthetic oil as needed to compensate for the oil lost during sensor replacement. Do not overfill.
10. 10

    Reinstall underbody protection
    If removed, reinstall the engine splash shield or belly pan, securing all fasteners and push pins properly.

Reassembly

1. Ensure the electrical connector is fully locked onto the new sensor
2. Verify all underbody panels are reinstalled securely
3. Double-check that no tools or rags were left in the engine bay or under the vehicle

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to idle for 30 seconds, then shut off
• Check for oil leaks around the oil level sensor mounting area
• Start the vehicle again and verify the oil pressure warning light turns off within 1-2 seconds
• Check the instrument cluster for any oil level warnings or check engine lights
• If equipped with digital oil level display, verify it shows accurate oil level reading after driving 5-10 miles
• Recheck the sensor area for leaks after the first drive cycle

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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