Once the oil pressure gauge goes up when accelerating, it is vital to monitor the situation, especially if there’s fluctuation. The most common reason why the oil pressure gauge fluctuates might involve the deterioration of the engine parts.
Although, not every situation equates to damage. Sometimes the pressure goes up and down if influenced by the vehicle’s mechanisms and its environment. That’s why it is vital to verify every detail to do the next best step necessary.
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Why Does Oil Pressure Go Up When Accelerating?
In terms of oil pressure, it normally increases as the engine works increasingly, too, when the vehicle accelerates. The engine works more to support the speed of movement of the vehicle. Thus, the oil pump spins faster, resulting in high oil pressure.
There are cases where such a scenario happens while driving on an inclined road. The oil pumps more as the driver accelerates to reach the top. To verify, the normal pressure rate noted should be 25 – 65 Psi alone.
Meanwhile, there are also cases wherein the fluctuation of psi shows signs of alarming high pressure. Once it goes to 80 and above, combined with an odd sound, there’s a chance that there’s a problem with the vehicle.
When that happens, it is recommended to let a professionals like a mechanice to check the root of the problem. Although, that doesn’t mean actions from the owner can’t take place.
Common Problems That Cause Increased Oil Pressure
Several factors contribute to the abnormal increase of oil pressure during acceleration. Usually, that involves a sign of deterioration slowly happening in the engine, which makes the oil gauge move.
In this section, every factor will be discussed to illuminate the causes of increased oil pressure.
1. Blocked oil passageways
As mentioned, it is typically normal when the oil pressure rises when accelerating. However, if it fluctuates, there might be a problem, like a compromised oil passage in the engine. It usually happens because of dirt accumulation.
Once the lubrication is restricted to flow naturally, the oil pressure will increase abnormally. That’s because the factor that supposedly cools down the engine is not there, thus, resulting in high oil pressure gauge reading.
2. Broken oil pump
Another possible cause of the unwanted rising of oil pressure might be a broken oil pump. The oil pump is a vital part of the engine as its main role is to help circulate the oil to achieve cooling of the engine.
If the oil pump is not functional, it can pump insufficiently or over the oil amount needed. In short, it will cause fluctuation in the reading of oil pressure.
3. Contaminated oil filter
In connection with the first sign, having a contaminated oil filter will also affect the oil pressure level. If this item can’t filter the oil further, the collected dirt can block the oil passageway.
This kind of build-up should be expected but must be monitored closely.
One way to prevent build-up problems is by changing the oil filter when necessary. That way, there will be no restrictions on the lubrication flow.
4. Wrong parts installed
Installation of the engine parts is crucial. That’s why it is a must to only attach the suitable items required for the model of the vehicle. Usually, an unmatched item can also lead to a sudden increase in oil pressure, which is easy to explain.
This happens because any unsuitable item can easily break or compromise the engine’s performance. Using compatible engine parts for the vehicle model will only ensure work performance. In short, it will help the engine to function correctly.
5. Pressure relief valve defect
One last possible cause is the pressure relief valve. The function of this part is vital in maintaining normal oil pressure. It releases pressure to keep a balanced Psi for the engine. If there’s a defect in this function, it will lead to an increasing oil pressure gauge reading.
Troubleshooting and Preventing High Oil Pressure During Acceleration
The factors above prove that engine part defects will threaten the functionality and performance of the oil pressure gauge. However, it also shows that it is solvable. Let’s check how to easily fix high oil pressure with the following solutions.
Change oil and oil filter
Preventing contamination can happen through oil changes. That usually involves draining the tainted oil and replacing the oil filter in the process.
Cleaning oil pan
Another step is cleaning the oil pans, which can help prevent clogged oil passageways. It can be done using a brush, rags, detergents, etc. Removing sludges like dirt and oil build-up would be easier with these materials.
Meanwhile, visiting a mechanic is the best option for the rest of the technical issues. Doing so will ensure that replacements will be done correctly and safely, thus preventing the engine from further damage.
Conclusion
In the end, knowing why an oil pressure gauge goes up when accelerating is vital for every vehicle owner. Understanding the defects mean that the engine is at risk of failure. Truthfully, that’s a disaster because buying a new engine is costly.
The only solution is to prevent and solve the cause of deterioration, which secures the engine vehicle. Furthermore, knowing the situation is important to keep a functional vehicle. Of course, that’s a priority that every car owner wants.
Working with Vernon and Ryley has been a great experience for me. Together with the rest of the team, I hope to create reliable and useful information for our readers, no matter where they are and their experience with car maintenance.
