Oil pressure in the lubrication system (Fiesta 4)

In order for the oil film to remain on the rubbing surfaces under high loads, the oil must always be supplied to the lubrication points under sufficient pressure. However, if the friction pair pressure is too high due to the oil being too cold and viscous, the engine may be seriously damaged. This is prevented by a bypass valve that opens and directs the oil to the suction channel of the oil pump. In technically sound Fiesta engines, the oil reaches the lubrication points at an average engine speed under a pressure of approximately 1.5–2.8 bar (oil temperature approximately 80–100°C, all-season oil SAE 10W-30). At idle, an oil pressure of 0.6–1 bar is sufficient. The oil pressure warning lamp in the instrument cluster does not provide precise oil pressure values; it only lights up at a pressure of 0.3–0.5 bar. More precise information can be provided by an oil pressure gauge, which is relatively easy to install.

Oil pressure warning light

The low oil pressure warning light comes on when there is no longer a sufficient supply of oil to all engine components. For example, this may already be the case if you drive your Fiesta quickly around a corner with too little oil. The resulting centrifugal forces push the oil to the outside of the oil pan and the oil pump sucks air from the oil pan instead of oil. The oil pressure drops sharply, which can lead to serious engine damage. Also, if the warning light flashes at idle after fast driving on the motorway or a mountain pass, this is a clear sign that the oil pressure is no longer sufficient. And if the warning light goes out when the crankshaft speed increases slightly, then there is no need to worry - a technically sound engine will cool down while driving.

If the oil pressure warning light is constantly on

1. Stop the vehicle immediately and turn off the engine.

2. Check the oil level.

3. If there is no oil, add it immediately if possible or drive carefully to the nearest petrol station and add oil. Make sure the light goes out.

4. If this does not happen, tow the car to the nearest auto repair shop and have it diagnosed. This is the only way to avoid serious engine damage.

The article was taken in its entirety from the specified website FORDBOOK